New Mexico health officials warn the public about bats as rabies concerns rise

A warning to get medical attention immediately following physical contact with a bat leads MedicalWatch for June 29, 2026.

ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico (KOAT) -- New Mexico Department of Health officials are warning the public about bats as rabies concerns arise.

The warning comes after a bat recently tested positive in Corrales back in June.

Officials say the bat was found in a private home, euthanized, and then sent to the NMDOH Scientific Laboratory Division for testing.

All people and animals exposed are currently receiving post-exposure vaccines to prevent disease.

Health officials say that if you do see a bat, do not pick it up or touch it with bare hands or allow your pet(s) to interact with it.

Rabid wild animals may show no fear of people and may be aggressive, or they may be quiet and appear tame.

To prevent rabies, the NMDOH recommends the following:

• 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.
• People who have direct contact with a bat, who wake to find a bat in their room or who cannot reliably report whether contact with a bat occurred should receive a rabies vaccination.

Report any exposure or bite to your local animal control and call the NMDOH Helpline at 1-833-SWNURSE (1-833 796-8773). You can also text questions to 66364 (NMDOH).

Amari Saxton