State of Minnesota warns of deadly rabbit disease found in Hennepin County

(FOX 9) – Minnesota state officers are warning pet homeowners a few lethal rabbit illness present in Hennepin County.

Authorities with the state Board of Animal Well being say one rabbit examined optimistic for Rabbit Hemorrhagic Illness Virus 2 (RHDV2) after 4 rabbits died unexpectedly.

Officers say the rabbit that examined optimistic was “torpid, quiet and limp earlier than its dying.” The carcass was despatched to the College of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory late final month for testing.

The state says the virus is extremely contagious and might have an effect on each home and wild rabbits. A vaccine is offered, and the state is encouraging rabbit homeowners to get their animals handled.

The state says the affected rabbits had been pets which don’t journey for exhibits or exhibitions. Authorities are working to find out how they contracted RHDV2.

Together with vaccination for the animals, rabbit homeowners can take steps to forestall infections, together with: “Washing fingers earlier than and after dealing with rabbits, limiting guests interacting with rabbits, preserving rabbits indoors if attainable, and adequately separating outside rabbits from wild rabbits and their setting.”

It is necessary to notice, the state says the illness poses no danger to people.