02/01/2026
🐰 IMPORTANT RABBIT HEALTH ALERT 🐰
RABBIT OWNERS – PLEASE READ
The Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV) is scheduled for release in the Greater Sydney area in the first week of March 2026 as part of pest control programs.
⚠️ This virus is highly contagious and usually fatal for pet rabbits.⚠️
The only effective protection is vaccination with FILAVAC®.
🗓️ WHAT YOU NEED TO DO
✔️ Get your rabbit’s FILAVAC vaccination administered by the end of January 2026
✔️ This timing allows proper immunity before the virus release
✔️ Both indoor and outdoor rabbits are at risk
🩺 WHY IT MATTERS
• RHDV can spread via insects (such as fleas and flies), direct contact between rabbits, predator faeces (dogs, foxes and cats), clothing, food, and the environment
• Many infected rabbits show little to no warning signs
• Once infected, survival rates are very low
• Please note that only rabbits can contract RHDV, native animals and other domestic pets are unaffected by it.
💙 Vaccination is the best way to protect your rabbit. To ensure your rabbit is protected, make sure they are vaccinated by the end of January 2026!
📞 Appointments are limited – please contact us early to avoid missing out.
Richmond: 02 4578 4229
Wilberforce: 02 4575 3335
https://www.vpb.nsw.gov.au/news/2026-wild-rabbit-control-program
For enquiries on the RHDV1-– whether wild (feral) rabbits or K5 release in Greater Sydney, contact Lisa Goodchild, District Veterinarian, on 0427 559 656 or [email protected] .