Dangerous Rabbit Virus Detected in Cook County, Illinois
Illinois officials are urging rabbit owners to exercise caution following the detection of a dangerous virus that has been known to quickly kill rabbits. The Illinois Department of Agriculture has confirmed that Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease, also known as RHDV2, was discovered in a domestic rabbit in Cook County last month. This marks the first reported case of the virus in domestic rabbits in the state.
Prior to this incident, the virus had not been found in any domestic or wild rabbits within Illinois. However, RHDV2 has already been identified in various other areas around the United States, particularly in the western half of the country.
RHDV2 is difficult to confirm as there is currently no live animal test available. However, symptoms of the disease include lethargy, difficulty breathing, and loss of appetite, according to the Agriculture Department. It is crucial for any suspected cases of RHDV2 in domestic or wild rabbits to be reported to agriculture officials immediately. Residents within Illinois can contact 217-782-4944, while the U.S. Department of Agriculture Veterinary Services can be reached at 217-547-6030.
To combat the spread of RHDV2, a vaccine has been approved for emergency use in the prevention of the disease. Detailed information on how to order the vaccine can be found on the Agriculture Department’s website.
In addition to vaccination, rabbit owners are encouraged to implement various biosecurity measures to minimize the risk of disease transmission. This includes avoiding contact with wild rabbits, ensuring that rabbits are not allowed on the ground while outdoors, practicing proper hand hygiene before and after handling rabbits, and limiting interactions with other rabbits.
The severity of RHDV2 was demonstrated recently at Cuddle Bunny, a facility in Lakeview that provides rabbit boarding services. Two bunnies at the facility suddenly succumbed to the virus, according to the Chicago Tribune.
Given the detection of this dangerous virus, it is imperative for rabbit owners to remain vigilant and take appropriate precautions to protect their pets. By doing so, the spread of RHDV2 can be mitigated, and the well-being of domestic rabbits can be preserved.