We are aware of a confirmed, fatal case of RHD2 virus infection in a rabbit in our area. It’s also been reported anecdotally that some wild rabbit populations have suddenly disappeared, raising suspicions of a disease outbreak.
There are two strains of the RHD virus, which is also known as VHD virus (The abbreviations stand for ‘Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease’ and ‘Viral Haemorrhagic Disease of rabbits’). Both strains are spread by direct contact, biting flies or fleas, or through contaminated food or bedding. Infection results in sudden death or acute illness with internal bleeding. The survival rate is very low and there is no effective treatment.
The best way to protect your rabbit is through vaccination. Most pet rabbits are routinely vaccinated for RHD1 and myxomatosis. However, this does not protect against the new RHD2 strain.
We have now been able to source RHD2 vaccine in single dose vials and we recommend that all pet rabbits are given this.
Please call your nearest branch to order vaccine and arrange an appointment for your rabbit.
We use cookies on our website to make it easier for you to use. Read more.
Our website uses cookies to distinguish you from other users of our website. This helps us to provide you with a good experience when you browser our website and also allows us to improve our website. See our cookie policy.
We use 3 different types of cookies on our website. You can say which ones you're happy for us to use below.
These cookies do things like keep the website secure. They always need to be on.
These cookies store information about how you use our website, such as what you click on.
These cookies do things like tell us if you've seen our adverts on social media, such as Facebook or Twitter.