Beaver that bit boy at Cunningham Falls State Park test positive for rabies
The beaver that attacked a 13-year-old boy at Cunningham Falls State Park has tested positive for rabies, officials said.
According to the Maryland Department of Health, the beaver was picked up shortly after the attack by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources and was euthanized in order to test for rabies.
The boy is recovering and the swimming area at the beach will remain closed for several days as crews make sure the area is safe for visitors.
People who may have had contact with this beaver or any other wildlife, should consult their health care provider and notify the FCHD’s Community Health Services Office at 301-600-3342.
Original Story Below:
A teenage boy bitten by a beaver at Cunningham Falls State Park was flown to a Baltimore hospital Sunday morning.
*UPDATE*(7/27) The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has confirmed that the beaver was found and euthanized in order to facilitate testing for rabies. The DNR is working with the Park Service and Natural Resources Police to determine when the swimming area can be reopened.
DNR officials told WBAL-TV 11 News that the boy suffered injuries to his hands and chest and was flown to Johns Hopkins Hospital.
DNR said it closed the swimming beach at the William Houck Area near the North Beach of the lake.
Maryland Park Service staff and Maryland Natural Resources Police searched for the animal so that it can be tested for rabies. Officials found one beaver and continued to search the area to determine whether any additional beavers were present and to confirm that the captured animal was the one involved. Rabies testing will be coordinated through the Frederick County Health Department.
All other areas of Cunningham Falls State Park remained open to visitors.