Rabbit Haemorrhatic Disease Virus

Introduction

This is a severe viral disease of rabbits caused by Caliciviris. Hares can be effected but seroconvert without clinical signs. Theres is a single strain of the disease.

The disease is transmitted by direct contact with, or contact of secretions from, wild rabbits. The disease was first described in China in 1984 and has been reported in Europe since 1992.

There is very high morbidity high rate and fast mortality (within 2 days of contraction). The virus causes a systemic disease syndrome, including haemorrhage, generalized congestion, especially in the lungs and trachea and liver necrosis.

Clinical Signs

These are dependent on the organs systems effected in the systemic disease, but mostly include depression, anorexia, muscular tremors and incoordination.

Diagnosis

Clinical signs or sudden death can be indicative of this disease. Post-mortem lesions include hepatic necrosis and enlargement of the spleen,plus generalised congestion. Serology may be performed (ELISA and PCR) to definatively diagnose the virus.

Control

Until 1996, RHDV was notifiable and slaughter was indicated, however, vaccination now exists and has proven effective.