Health officials say people and pets can become infected through flea bites or contact with infected animals
NEED TO KNOW
- A wild rat in Santa Fe County tested positive for plague
- New Mexico has reported five animal plague cases this year, including infections in four dogs across two counties
- Health officials urge precautions for pets and people, as plague can spread through fleas or contact with infected animals
A wild rat found dead on private property in Santa Fe County has tested positive for plague, prompting New Mexico health officials to remind residents that the disease can spread to both people and pets.
The rodent is the first confirmed wild rodent in Santa Fe County to test positive for plague in 2026, according to the New Mexico Department of Health (NMDOH). The animal was submitted for testing after a resident discovered it dead on their property.
The case follows four earlier animal infections reported this year, including three dogs in Santa Fe County and one dog in Bernalillo County, bringing New Mexico’s total number of confirmed animal plague cases in 2026 to five.
“While this is an animal case of plague, it’s important to remember humans can get plague from flea bites or direct contact with infected animals, including rodents, wildlife and even pets,” Dr. Chad Smelser, deputy state epidemiologist for the NMDOH, said in a statement…