Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 is a virus specific to rabbits that does not infect people. However, it can cause sudden death in rabbits. Rabbits that survive the infection shed the virus for up to 100 days after symptoms disappear and can infect other rabbits. The virus spread rapidly in Europe after its 2010 discovery in France and has been spreading in the U.S. since being discovered in Ohio in 2018.
Source: University of Florida Extension, March 25, 2022. Link. How do I keep my rabbits safe?
- If you show rabbits at exhibitions, be sure to follow all the biosecurity protocols at the show.
- Disinfect all bedding, cages and equipment regularly with a 10% bleach solution.
- Never let your domestic rabbits mingle with wild rabbits, and never release domestic rabbits into the wild.
INSIGHTS: Figure 1 will help you determine if your area is at risk for the virus. The video features Dr. Chris Hayhaw, president of the American Rabbit Breeders Association, and has worthwhile information for rabbit owners.