Based on results from the National Wildlife Health Center ( NWHC ) in Madison, Wisc., Texas Parks and Wildlife Department ( TPWD ) has confirmed the presence of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 ( RHDV2 ) in a Jim Wells County black- tailed jackrabbit.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, this state is the 38th state in the state to have seen a proved wildland detection since March 2020. Because of the number and widespread geographic distribution of these detections, researchers believe Texas has an endemic ( widespread ) RHDV2 population.
RHD is a highly contagious viral condition that affects both domestic and wild rabbit types, including foxes, scenario, and cottontails. RHDV2 appears only to affect rabbit species ( lagomorphs ). It is not known to affect people, cattle or animals. But, dogs should not be allowed to consume dead dog carcasses.
Hare Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 is almost always fatal and affects all generations. Owners of domesticated rabbits should follow proper security guidelines and speak with their veterinarian about a vaccination.
Clinical signs of RHDV2 may include dullness/lethargy, lack of appetite, bleeding from the nose and eyes or wet, crowded eyes, but most afflicted rabbits are commonly found deceased.
RHDV2 you persist on rabbit bones after dying for several months. As a result, TPWD advises hunting to remove as little biological material as possible from a produce site. Any leftovers from the rabbits that are brought home for use should be thrown in a trash that is meant for landfill.
TPWD continues to monitor and respond to deaths incidents involving wild rabbits and hares throughout the condition. If you notice sick or dead crazy rats, call a local TPWD animals scientist. Learn more about RHDV2 in wild rabbits on the RHDV section of the TPWD website.
