First rabies case of 2026 reported in New Mexico
SANTA FE – A bobcat in Sierra County has tested positive for rabies – the first animal rabies case in the state in 2026.
The New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH) reported the bobcat was euthanized after attacking several dogs. All dogs were up to date with rabies vaccination, received a booster vaccine and will be monitored for symptoms for 45 days. Two people who may have been exposed are receiving post-exposure rabies vaccine.
“Rabies is deadly but preventable. State law requires all dogs and cats be vaccinated against rabies,” said Dr. Erin Phipps, state public health veterinarian for the NMDOH. “Unvaccinated pets exposed to rabies must be euthanized or strictly isolated for four months to prevent human exposure.”
Rabies in New Mexico is most often found in wildlife such as skunks, bats and foxes. The state confirmed 13 rabid animals in 2025, including one bobcat, and 12 in 2024, including four bobcats. While bats are the animal most commonly found with rabies in New Mexico, all mammals are susceptible. Rabid wild animals may show no fear of people and may be aggressive, or they may be quiet and appear tame.
If you see a sick wild animal, or a wild animal acting abnormally, report it to your local animal control officer or the New Mexico Department of Game and Fish at (888) 248-6866.
NMDOH recommends the following to prevent rabies:
- Keep your pets up to date on vaccinations and ensure they wear tags on their collar confirming their vaccination status.
- If your cat or dog has been bitten or scratched, especially by a wild animal, call your pet’s veterinarian even if the wound is superficial.
- Avoid wild or unfamiliar animals. Do not attempt to feed them. Don’t approach or touch wild animals (alive or dead). Teach this important message to your children and keep a close eye on your kids around unfamiliar animals.
- In the event of an animal bite or exposure to saliva, wash the affected area immediately and thoroughly with soap and water, and seek medical attention promptly.
- Rabies vaccines are recommended for everyone who has direct contact with a bat, or who finds a bat in the room where they were sleeping or where a child was unattended.
Report any exposure or bite to your local animal control and call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (833 796-8773). You can also text questions to 66364 (NMDOH).
For more info about rabies see the New Mexico Department of Health website: Rabies.
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