By the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection Division of Animal Health
Wisconsin veterinarians can now offer the Medgene Labs vaccine for rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2 (RHDV2), thanks to authorization by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) Division of Animal Health. RHDV2 has not been detected in Wisconsin, however, RHDV2 has been confirmed in Minnesota and several other states.
Veterinarians may order the RHDV2 vaccine by contacting Medgene Labs at (605) 697-2600. For more information on the vaccine, go to medgenelabs.com/rhdv2-vaccine/
Rabbit owners are encouraged 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 keeping their animals outdoors.
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.
For more on RHDV2, go to datcp.wi.gov/Pages/Programs_Services/RabbitHemorrhagicDisease.aspx.