If you're planning a trip to the lake this weekend, you'll want to avoid one part of this lake.
The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) has issued a water safety advisory for Turtle Island in the Lake George Wild Forest after one or more beavers in the area may have rabies.
The advisory is in effect through at least July 14, and swimmers are being told to stay away from the water around campsites 1 through 5 on Turtle Island.
Why Was the Advisory Issued?
The advisory follows an incident on the 4th of July, when two swimmers were attacked by a beaver near Turtle Island.
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According to reports, a 29-year-old Vermont resident was swimming with friends when a beaver scratched and bit another swimmer who was relaxing on a pool float. He jumped into the water to help but was also attacked, suffering bites to his finger, wrist and stomach before getting away.
Both men were taken to a nearby hospital, where they began rabies post-exposure treatment.
DEC Environmental Conservation Officers investigated the attack and determined it happened about 150 feet from a beaver dam. Officials now believe one or more beavers in the colony may be infected with rabies.
While the advisory is focused on swimmers, anyone visiting the area, including campers and boaters, is urged to use caution and avoid any contact with beavers or other wildlife.
Visitors are also being asked to report any beavers that appear to be acting strangely.
What Does a Rabid Animal Look Like?
Rabies can cause dramatic changes in an animal's behavior. Instead of running away, infected wildlife may:
- Act unusually friendly or tame
- Become aggressive without warning
- Stagger or appear disoriented
- Foam at the mouth
- Make unusual sounds
- Show signs of paralysis
If you notice an animal behaving abnormally, don't approach it. Instead, report it to the DEC at 518-623-1200. In an emergency, call 911 or NYSDEC Dispatch at 518-897-1326.
What Is Rabies?
Rabies is a virus that attacks the brain and nervous system. Once symptoms begin, it is almost always fatal, but the good news is that it is preventable if treatment starts quickly after exposure.
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People are typically exposed through the bite of an infected animal, or if infected saliva gets into an open wound or the eyes, nose, or mouth.
How to Protect Yourself
Whether you're visiting Lake George or spending time outdoors anywhere in New York, health officials recommend:
- Never touch or feed wild animals.
- Keep your pets up to date on their rabies vaccinations.
- Supervise children around wildlife and teach them never to approach animals they don't know.
- Keep garbage secured and avoid leaving pet food outside, which can attract wildlife.
- Report animal bites or unusual wildlife behavior to your local health department.
What If You're Bitten?
If you believe you've been exposed to rabies:
- Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water immediately.
- Seek medical attention right away.
- Report the incident to your county health department.
Rabies treatment is highly effective when started quickly after exposure, so don't wait if you think you've had contact with a potentially infected animal.
For now, anyone heading to Turtle Island should steer clear of the affected swimming area until the advisory is lifted. Officials say they'll continue monitoring the beaver colony and provide updates as more information becomes available.
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Gallery Credit: Credit - Polly McAdams