26/10/2023
Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus 2: A Deadly Threat to Rabbits
If you own a pet rabbit or care about these furry animals, you may have heard of a deadly disease that is spreading among them. Rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2) is a highly contagious and lethal virus that affects both domestic and wild rabbits. RHDV-2 is not a new disease, but it has recently emerged in South Africa for the first time. The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development announced the outbreak of RHDV-2 in the Western and Northern Cape provinces in November 2022 already. It is still unclear how the disease entered the country, since the importation of rabbits and hares is not allowed. The virus causes severe damage to the liver and other organs, leading to internal bleeding and death.
What is RHDV2?
RHDV2 is a variant of the original rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV). RHDV causes a very acute and fatal disease in rabbits older than three months, with mortality rates of 90-95%. RHDV2, on the other hand, can infect rabbits of any age. RHDV2 often develops more slowly and is often fatal within 1-2 weeks. Rabbits with RHDV2 are much more likely to spread the disease because they live longer with symptoms. RHDV2 was first detected in France in 2010 and has since been reported in many European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, and the USA. The virus can survive for a long time in the environment, especially in animal tissues such as rabbit carcasses, which can be a major source of viral spreading. The virus can also withstand harsh environmental conditions, such as high temperatures or ultraviolet radiation. The virus is also very resistant to heat, cold, drying, and disinfectants.
How is RHDV2 transmitted?
RHDV2 can be transmitted through direct contact with infected rabbits or their bodily fluids. The virus can also be spread indirectly through contaminated objects, such as cages, bedding, food, water, or clothing. In addition, the virus can be carried by insects, rodents, birds, or predators that feed on infected rabbits.
What are the symptoms of RHDV2?
RHDV2 can cause a variety of symptoms in rabbits, depending on the strain of the virus and the immune status of the rabbit. Some rabbits may show no signs at all before dying suddenly. Others may exhibit signs such as:
- Loss of appetite
- Lethargy
- Fever
- Difficulty breathing
- Seizures
- Collapse
- Haemorrhaging from one or more body orifices
How to prevent RHDV2?
The best way to protect your rabbits against RHDV2 is to vaccinate them regularly with a vaccine that covers this strain. Vaccination is especially important for rabbits that live outdoors or have contact with other rabbits. However, vaccination does not guarantee complete protection and some vaccinated rabbits may still get infected or die from the disease. Therefore, it is also important to practice good biosecurity measures to prevent exposure to the virus. These include:
- Keeping your rabbits indoors or in a secure enclosure away from wild rabbits or predators
- Avoiding contact with other rabbits or their owners unless you know their health status
- Cleaning and disinfecting your hands, clothing, shoes, and equipment before and after handling your rabbits
- Quarantining new or sick rabbits for at least two weeks before introducing them to your existing rabbits
- Disposing of dead rabbits safely and promptly
What to do if you suspect your rabbit has RHDV2?
If you notice any signs of illness or sudden death in your rabbit, you should contact your veterinarian immediately. Not all veterinarians are comfortable or experienced with treating rabbits. You can find our partial list of rabbit-friendly veterinarians on our website at www.rabbitcaresouthafrica.org
There is no specific treatment for RHDV2 and supportive care may not be enough to save your rabbit. However, your veterinarian can confirm the diagnosis by testing samples from your rabbit and can advise you on how to prevent further spread of the disease. You or your veterinarian should also report any suspected cases of RHDV2 to your local animal health authorities.
How to Disinfect Your Rabbit's Living Area to Prevent RHDV2
One of the ways to prevent exposure to the virus is to disinfect your rabbit's hutch or living area regularly and thoroughly.
What do you need to disinfect your rabbit's cage?
To disinfect your rabbit's cage, you will need the following items:
- A suitable disinfectant that is effective against RHDV2 and safe for rabbits. F10 is an example or bleach diluted to 1:10 with water. Do not use alcohol, ammonia, or phenol-based products as they can be toxic to rabbits.
- A spray bottle or a bucket to apply the disinfectant
- Optionally, Gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from the disinfectant and possibly, the virus you suspect the virus’ presence
- Paper towels or disposable cloths to wipe the cage
- A garbage bag to dispose of the used materials
How to disinfect your rabbit's hutch or living space?
- Remove your rabbit from the hutch or living area and place it in a secure and clean area. Do not let it come into contact with other rabbits or potential sources of infection.
- Remove all bedding, toys, food, water, and litter from the area and dispose of them in a garbage bag if you suspect the presence of the virus.
- Spray the area and all its accessories with the disinfectant, making sure to cover all surfaces. Leave it for at least 10 minutes or as directed by the product label.
- Wipe the hutch or other surfaces and its accessories with paper towels or disposable cloths, removing any dirt or debris. Rinse them with clean water if needed.
- Dry the hutch, living area and accessories thoroughly with paper towels or disposable cloths. Do not use a hair dryer as it may spread the virus in the air.
- Dispose of the used materials in a garbage bag and seal it tightly. Wash your hands and any exposed skin with soap and water.
- Return your rabbit to the cage and provide fresh bedding, toys, food, water, and litter.
How often should you disinfect your rabbit's cage?
You should disinfect your rabbit's cage at least once a week if there is an outbreak of RHDV2 in your immediate area or if you suspect your rabbit has been exposed to the virus. You should also disinfect your rabbit's hutch or living area whenever you introduce a new rabbit or after a visit to the vet. Disinfecting your rabbit's living area is an important measure to prevent RHDV2 infection in your rabbit. The best way to protect your rabbits against RHDV-2 is to vaccinate them regularly. The vaccine is now available in South Africa. Speak to your nearest rabbit-friendly veterinarian. The virus is not a health threat to humans or to any other species.
