CASPER, Wyo. — The Wyoming Game and Fish Department said on Friday that they have recently confirmed the presence of “rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus 2” (RHDV2) among some wild rabbits in the state.
The disease was detected among wild eastern cottontail rabbits in Albany County.
“RHDV2 is a fatal disease of rabbits and hares,” Game and Fish said. “An estimated 35-50% of infected wild rabbits succumb to the disease.”
Wyomingites are encouraged to lookout for dead rabbits. The department is collecting dead rabbits for testing to monitor the spread of the disease.
“Any rabbit could become infected with the disease — so it could be a cottontail living in your yard or the one you see while hiking,” said State Wildlife Veterinarian Samantha Allen. “Please report any dead rabbits you find. Testing these carcasses is the only way to know how the disease is spreading in Wyoming.”
Rabbits and hares of all wild species in the state are susceptible to the disease, including:
- cottontail rabbits
- jack rabbits
- pygmy rabbits.
“Domestic rabbits are also at risk; however, other domestic pets and livestock are not at risk from the disease,” Game and Fish said.
Game and Fish added that the presence of the disease has been confirmed in other western states, including:
- California
- Nevada
- Texas
- New Mexico
- Arizona
- Utah
- Colorado
“RHDV2 does not pose a threat to humans, but rabbits carry other diseases which can, like tularemia and plague,” Game and Fish said. “The public is advised not to touch or pick up any dead wild rabbits. Rather, note the location and call the Game and Fish Wildlife Health Lab at (307) 745-5865 or the nearest regional office. Game and Fish personnel will evaluate the situation and make plans to collect the rabbit.”
“RHDV2 is a reportable disease in the United States and Wyoming. Anyone suspecting the disease in domestic rabbits is required to report to the State Veterinarian and USDA APHIS immediately. Veterinarians should contact USDA-APHIS or the Wyoming State Veterinarian’s office at (307) 857-4140 or (307) 777-6440.”
This article originally appeared on Oil City News. Used with permission.
