THURMONT, Md. (WBFF) — A beaver that attacked a 19-year-old fisherman in Cunningham Falls State Park on Aug. 5 tested positive for rabies, the Maryland Department of Health confirmed Thursday.
This is the second beaver to test positive for the rabies virus at the state park within the past two weeks.
“Rabies can infect mammals through a bite or a scratch. Once an animal or person starts showing symptoms, it is almost always fatal unless treatment is given,” said Barry Glotfelty, Director for Frederick County Health Department’s Environmental Health Services.
As this time, officials have closed The Houck day use area, boat ramp, and the Big Hunting Creek above the lake. All use of the closed areas is prohibited until the area can be confirmed safe for visitors.
The effort is expected to take several days, said officials.
The first case occurred on July 26, when a teenager was bitten by a beaver in the designated swimming area. The incident led officials to close the swimming beach while crews searched for the animal.
A day later, that beaver tested positive for rabies.
Health officials are urging people who have been bitten or scratched by a beaver near Cunningham Falls State Park to talk to their health care provider and call the FCHD’s Community Health Services Office at 301-600-3342.
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