Teen bitten by rabid beaver while swimming at Maryland state park
A teenager was bitten by a beaver at Cunningham Falls State Park; the animal later tested positive for rabies, prompting health officials to close the swimming area and issue safety guidance.
A teenager swimming in a designated area at Cunningham Falls State Park in Frederick County, Maryland, was bitten by a beaver on Sunday morning. Animal control retrieved the beaver later that day, and the Maryland Department of Health confirmed on Monday that the animal tested positive for rabies.
County health officials have closed the William Houck Area of Hunting Creek Lake to swimming until the water can be declared safe, a process that may take several days.
"Mammals can be infected with the rabies virus, therefore do not touch or play with unknown animals. If you or your pets have contact with a wild animal, contact local authorities," said Barry Glotfelty, director of the county’s Environmental Health Services.
The health department advised anyone who may have been exposed to the beaver to contact their doctor and the Frederick County Health Department’s Community Health Services Office. Pet owners were instructed to notify their veterinarian and the county’s Environmental Health Office.
Rabies, a viral disease spread through the saliva of infected mammals, can be transmitted by bites. The department noted that symptoms in animals may include unusual behavior such as fear of water, excessive salivation, loss of appetite, limping, or atypical daytime activity.