Since March 2020, a virus that affects rabbits, called rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV2), has entered the United States and spread between states.
So far, Kansas still does not have this deadly virus. However, domestic and wild breeds have both occurred in Texas and Colorado. Due to the unprecedented spread of the virus, the Animal Health Department of the Kansas Department of Agriculture recommends that rabbit performances and activities be cancelled, postponed or held virtual at this time.
The American Rabbit Breeding Association requires all breeders in Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado, Utah and Western Texas to voluntarily admit herd isolation until effective management of RHDV2 infection. Rabbit owners are required to adopt strict biosecurity measures to reduce the spread of this deadly virus.
Eric Stewart, executive director of the American Rabbit Breeders Association, said: “This is the first time this virus has spread like this.” “The reason for this concern is that it exists in the hare population.”
According to the USDA, there is widespread concern about cottontail and hare infections. The virus has been reported in Arizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah. Stewart said Kansas officials are in this situation. Currently, hares in Prowers County, Colorado, and Potter and Randall Counties in Texas have died of this virus infection. Powers County borders Hamilton and Stanton counties in Kansas, while Porter and Randall counties are only three counties away from Morton County in the southwestern corner of Kansas.
Kansas State Department of Agriculture, Kansas State Animal Health Commissioner Dr. Justin Smith said: “We have expanded the border.”
Smith said Kansas has inspected dead rabbits and found that RHDV2 is not the cause of death. Although the virus is spreading, it is currently weakening slightly in other states. He believes this is due to increased vigilance, such as cancellation of performances and biosecurity.
Smith said: “This is a very strong virus.” “This disease is definitely something we must pay close attention to.”
Although it is not known that the disease will spread to other animals, birds of prey are still carriers. The virus cannot be transmitted to humans.
According to the USDA, the only sign of this disease is usually sudden death. Due to internal bleeding, the animal’s nose may be stained with blood. Infected rabbits may also have fever, loss of appetite, or respiratory distress.
It is recommended that all rabbit breeders and owners strictly implement biological safety regulations, including keeping animals and keeping them away from wild breeds. ARBA will update its 20,000 members on the latest news of the epidemic. The organization places restrictions on rabbits traveling in infected countries.
Stewart said Kansas is a gateway country. The Kansas State Fair is about to start restricting animal shows. Rabbits will not appear in the animals shown.
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Post time: Sep-25-2020
