Outbreak Alert: Understanding Rabbit Hemorrhagic Virus

Section 1: Characteristics of the Spread of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD)

1. The susceptibility to RHD is higher in fur rabbits compared to meat or fur rabbits.

2. Adult and young adult rabbits are more prone to RHD infection than younger rabbits. The likelihood of infection in nursing rabbits and those under 2 months of age is extremely low, with younger rabbits showing fewer cases of illness.

3. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected rabbits or carriers, or by exposure to contaminated feed, environment, and other vectors.

4. RHD can occur yearround.

Section 2: Key Symptoms of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Infection

The incubation period for RHD typically ranges from 2 to 3 days. The disease is usually categorized into three clinical forms based on the duration and severity of the illness:

1. Acute. The most acute form often appears early in the outbreak, with affected rabbits typically showing no signs or merely a brief period of excitement before collapsing and dying, sometimes with frothy blood from the nostrils.

2. Chronic. The acute form is characterized by symptoms such as lack of energy, rough coat, decreased appetite, increased thirst, and elevated body temperature (above 40.5°C). After death, the body may exhibit arching of the back, with the disease lasting from a few hours to 2 days.

3. Chronic. The chronic form is more common in the later stages of an outbreak. Affected rabbits become listless, lose their appetite, rapidly lose weight, and eventually weaken and die.

Section 3: Prevention and Control Measures for Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease

1. Practice selfbreeding. Avoid introducing rabbits from疫 areas or purchasing rabbit products. If introducing new stock is necessary, ensure onsite inspection and quarantine of the rabbits. Upon clearance after a 2 to 3week isolation period, they can be introduced to the existing group.

2. Enhance husbandry management. It's best to keep different types of rabbits separate. If there are many rabbits, avoid mixing them all together. Feeding should be consistent and measured, with regular cleaning of the pens and prompt removal of waste. Regularly disinfect the pens.

4. Vaccinate all introduced rabbits and ensure they receive the RHD vaccine at least twice a year.

The above is a summary by Oxygen Pet Doctor of the characteristics of the spread of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease. RHD is a highly contagious and可怕的 disease. We hope that all rabbit owners can take proactive steps to prevent this illness in their beloved pets.