Teen Bitten by Rabid Beaver; Park Beach Closed

Swimming at Cunningham State Falls State Park is currently prohibited following a rabid beaver attack on a teenager over the weekend. The incident occurred around 9 a.m. on Sunday, July 26, when a 13-year-old boy was bitten by a beaver while swimming in the North Beach area of Hunting Creek Lake. The boy sustained injuries to his hands and chest and was airlifted to Johns Hopkins Hospital for treatment.

Following the attack, the swimming beach was immediately closed. A beaver found near the scene was euthanized and subsequently tested positive for rabies on Monday afternoon. Authorities have closed all swimming and water access at the park until they can confirm the area's safety, a process that may take several days.

Officials are investigating the potential presence of other rabid beavers, noting that their communal nature increases the risk of disease spread. Rabies is a nearly always fatal viral disease if prompt post-exposure treatment is not administered. Mammals can carry the rabies virus, and people are advised not to interact with unknown animals.