CATRON COUNTY, N.M. —

The state Department of Health said a rabid coyote bite a hiker in the Gila National Forest, leading to a positive test for rabies.

Health officials said the hiker did not require hospitalization. The rabies diagnosis was confirmed by the New Mexico Department of Health laboratory division.

NMDOH said this is the fourth confirmed rabid animal to be found in southwest New Mexico in 2025. A vaccination clinic is scheduled in Silver City following the positive test.

The High Desert Humane Society will host the clinic from 9 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 6. A one-year rabies vaccine costs $10, according to NMDOH. Clinics are typically held on the second Saturday of each month.

NMDOH also provided a list of recommendations people can take to stay safe from rabies exp

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