The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Division of Animal Health has authorized veterinarians to offer the Medgene Labs vaccine for rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2). RHDV2 has not been detected in Wisconsin, however, RHDV2 has been confirmed in Minnesota and several other states.
Rabbit owners should contact their veterinarians for more information on the vaccine. Veterinarians may order the vaccine by contacting Medgene Labs at (605) 697-2600. For more information on the vaccine, go to https://medgenelabs.com/rhdv2-vaccine/.
DATCP encourages rabbit owners to reduce the risk of disease introduction by taking extra precautions when moving rabbits to fairs/shows, buying equipment, handling rabbits that aren’t their own, introducing new rabbits to their household, and when keeping their animals outdoors. For more information, see the National Assembly of State Animal Health Officials' (NASAHO) guidance for shows and exhibitions.
RHDV2 is a highly contagious viral disease that affects domesticated and wild rabbits. Although fatal to rabbits, the disease does not affect humans. This virus can survive for a long time on surfaces and in the environment, so it is especially important to review your biosecurity measures.
Often, the only signs of RHDV2 are sudden death and blood-stained noses caused by internal bleeding. Infected rabbits experience fever, loss of appetite, difficulty breathing or seizures.
Even with vaccine use, DATCP recommends that everyone who works with or cares for rabbits follow these biosecurity practices from the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Find more on biosecurity best practices, and continue to watch DATCP's RHDV2 webpage for updates.
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