Rabid Beaver Attack in Maryland: Boy Recovers After Surgeries 2026

A rabid beaver attack in Maryland has left a 13-year-old boy recovering from multiple surgeries and nerve damage. The incident occurred on July 26 at Cunningham Falls State Park in Thurmont, Maryland, when Dominick Cebula was swimming in a popular spot and a beaver attacked his chest underwater.

According to local news reports, the beaver was later confirmed to have rabies after being caught and euthanized. This is not an isolated event; multiple beaver attacks have been reported in Maryland recently, raising concerns about wildlife encounters and rabies exposure.

Details of the Rabid Beaver Attack

Dominick's father, Jeff Cebula, recounted the terrifying ordeal to WUSA: "He grabbed its head and a leg and he tried to get it off of him … At that point, he kind of felt that it was locked onto him. And then it started shaking its head, kind of like a dog would do."

After pulling the beaver off his chest, the animal attacked again, biting his right hand. Dominick fought it off before being airlifted to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. There, he underwent three surgeries on his chest and hands to repair nerve damage. He also received a rabies post-exposure shot, which his father noted involves multiple shots around each bite site.

Rising Concerns: Rabies and Wildlife Attacks

Rabies is a viral disease that affects the nervous system and is almost always fatal if left untreated. While human rabies cases are rare in the United States, exposure through wild animal bites remains a serious risk. Beavers are not typical rabies carriers, but when infected, they can become aggressive and attack humans.

This incident follows another rabid beaver attack on August 5, where a 19-year-old fisher was bitten on the leg. Such events highlight the importance of awareness and precaution when enjoying outdoor activities in areas where wildlife is present.

Rabies Exposure: What You Need to Know

Rabies is transmitted through the saliva of infected animals, usually via bites or scratches. Symptoms in humans can take weeks to months to appear but are almost always fatal once they do. Immediate medical attention after a potential exposure is critical.

Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is a series of shots that can prevent rabies from developing. It typically includes a dose of rabies immune globulin (RIG) and a series of rabies vaccines. The number of shots depends on the severity of exposure and the patient's vaccination history.

Preventing Rabies and Wildlife Attacks

To reduce the risk of rabies exposure and wildlife attacks, follow these guidelines:

• Avoid contact with wild animals: Never approach or attempt to feed wild animals, especially those acting strangely or aggressively.
• Vaccinate pets: Ensure pets are up-to-date on rabies vaccinations to protect them and your family.
• Seek immediate medical care: If bitten or scratched by a wild animal, wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water and seek medical attention immediately.
• Report aggressive animals: Notify local animal control or park authorities if you encounter an aggressive or sick-looking animal.
• Stay informed: Be aware of rabies outbreaks in your area and take extra precautions when outdoors.

FAQ

The recovery of Dominick Cebula serves as a reminder of the importance of rabies awareness and safety in outdoor settings. By staying informed and taking precautions, you can enjoy nature while minimizing risks.

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