Rabid coyote bites hiker in southwest New Mexico

SANTA FE – A coyote that bit a hiker in the Gila National Forest near Silver City has tested positive for rabies.  

The hiker did not require hospitalization but is receiving routine treatment to prevent rabies infection. Testing by the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) Scientific Laboratory Division confirmed the diagnosis. This is the fourth rabid animal identified in southwest New Mexico this year, following a bobcat in Sierra County, a coyote in Catron County, and a dog in Grant County. 

“Rabies is preventable, but only if we take it seriously,” said Dr. Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for NMDOH. “The best way to protect your family — including your pets — is to make sure your animals are vaccinated.” 

The High Desert Humane Society is holding a vaccination clinic on Saturday, Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to noon at 3050 South Cougar Way in Silver City. Clinics are frequently held on the second Saturday of each month, and a one-year rabies vaccine costs $10. More information is available at https://highdeserthumane.org/monthly-rabies-vaccination-clinics-information. 

While bats are the animal most commonly found with rabies in New Mexico, all mammals are susceptible. The southwest region has the highest number of rabies cases in animals other than bats. 

NMDOH recommends the following to stay safe from rabies: 

• Keep your pets up to date on vaccinations and ensure they wear current license tags.
• If your cat or dog has been bitten or scratched by a wild animal, call your veterinarian for a rabies booster, even if the wound is superficial.
• If an animal bites you, wash the area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention promptly.
• Vaccinate horses and other household pets, even if they remain exclusively on your property.
• Report any exposure or bite to your local animal control and call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833 796-8773). 

For more information about rabies, please check our rabies webpage at https://www.nmhealth.org/about/erd/ideb/zdp/rab/.

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Coyote infectado con rabia muerde a un excursionista en el suroeste de Nuevo México