Bandelier National Monument recently confirmed that a bat found dead in the park has tested positive for rabies, marking the first confirmed case of the year for northern New Mexico. The discovery of the rabid bat was made on July 7 in the Cottonwood Picnic Area within the park. While there have been no reports of known human contact with the bat, it is crucial for anyone who may have touched or had contact with a bat in the vicinity of the Cottonwood Picnic Area in early July to promptly reach out to their healthcare provider or the New Mexico Department of Health.
Rabies is a fatal disease that can affect any mammal, including bats. It is important to be aware that any bat that allows you to approach it, is unable to fly, is active during the day, or is found in an unusual place may be sick with rabies and should never be handled. If you come across a bat, dead or alive, it is advised not to touch it as bat bites can be very small and not always visible or painful. In case of any questions or concerns about potential contact with a bat, it is recommended to speak with a healthcare provider or contact the New Mexico Department of Health at 833.796.8773.
For individuals who have had contact with a bat or have found a bat in the room where they were sleeping or where a child was unattended, rabies vaccines are strongly recommended. Additionally, the New Mexico Department of Health offers the following tips to ensure the safety of you and your family from rabies:
– Keep pets on a leash and ensure they are up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
– Consider vaccinating horses and other livestock to protect them from rabid animals.
– Avoid approaching or touching wild or unfamiliar animals.
– Wash any exposed site immediately with soap and water if bitten by an animal and seek medical care.
– Contact local animal control and seek medical care if exposed to the saliva of wild animals.
For further information on rabies, individuals can visit the New Mexico Department of Health website. The department works to promote health equity and improve health outcomes for all residents of New Mexico.
Bandelier National Monument, where the rabid bat was found, is dedicated to protecting and preserving a significant portion of the Pajarito Plateau, which includes a vast number of Ancestral Pueblo archaeological sites. The park offers visitors the opportunity to engage with a variety of cultural and natural resources, including striking scenery, wildlife habitats, remnants of a volcanic landscape, and wilderness areas.
In conclusion, it is essential to exercise caution when encountering bats or other wild animals to prevent the spread of rabies. By following the recommended guidelines and seeking medical attention when necessary, individuals can ensure their safety and the well-being of their pets and livestock.
