18/11/2020
The outbreak of RHDV2 in North America remains a significant concern that your ARBA Board of Directors have taken quite seriously. We remain in constant contact with USDA and state veterinary officials to stay up to date with any developments regarding the virus status. The rate of spread and identification of new infections have slowed considerably in the outbreak areas. Members and breeders are strongly encouraged to continue with strict biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of this deadly disease. Please review the information provided on our website, page, and Domestic Rabbits magazine for specific instructions for strict biosecurity measures.
Your ARBA Board has approved working with potential vaccine manufactures should the ARBA be able to offer support with their efforts to produce vaccine domestically within the US. Dr. Hayhow has been in contact with at least one of these manufacturers directly to help with their efforts.
There have also been strong reactions to information provided by states regarding enforcement of long-standing interstate livestock health certificates. Note that these are not new regulations; most of these regulations have been in place for 30 years or more. Some states are requiring that rabbits originating from an area with active RHD infections be inspected within 72 hours of the date of shipment. The ARBA has no control over state regulations and it is important to note that these regulations are intended to protect rabbits within their state. These health certificates are not necessary within your own state; however you may need to check the show catalogs for upcoming shows to learn if you may need a health certificate or if you are not a resident of that state. In meetings with the 2021 ARBA Convention host in Louisville, Kentucky as well as the state veterinary office in Kentucky we have been informed that there are not currently any known concerns that would prevent the convention from being hosted next year. It is too early to know if there may be any new requirements for rabbits entering the state of Kentucky, but none are anticipated at this time.
