Rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV2) is endemic in southern Arizona, meaning it can’t be eradicated. The disease is highly contagious and can be spread through direct contact with infected rabbits, their feces, urine, and contaminated materials. It can also be transmitted by insects, such as flies, which can carry the virus.
Here are some things you can do to protect your pet rabbit and prevent the spread of RHDV2:
Not using any equipment, clothing, or boots for field work that you use with your pet rabbit
Vaccinate your pet: Get your pet rabbit vaccinated twice as soon as possible. You can get your pet vaccinated at select private exotic animal clinics.
Keep your pet indoors: Ideally, all pet rabbits should be housed indoors.
Take precautions when handling wild rabbits: If you work with or hunt wild rabbits, take special care to prevent your pet rabbit from coming into contact with them. You can do this by:
Removing any field clothing and showering after handling wild rabbits .
For more information on RHDV2 click here.