Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease

 
March 26, 2021 – The Idaho State Department of Agriculture and Idaho Department of Fish and Game Confirm Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease in Wild Jackrabbits.
 
What is rabbit hemorrhagic disease?
As noted in the USDA factsheet regarding the disease, rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) is a highly contagious and fatal foreign animal disease found in rabbits. Details on symptoms and spread are included in the factsheet.
 
Where has rabbit hemorrhagic disease been found?
In Idaho RHD was found in wild jackrabbits in south Ada county. USDA maintains a map of cases nationally.
 
What can I do to prevent rabbit hemorrhagic disease in my animals?
Good biosecurity habits are essential to the prevention of any disease. In addition to the ISDA’s biosecurity information, USDA has recommendations specific to RHD.
 
Can I vaccinate my animals against rabbit hemorrhagic disease?
Any vaccination requests should go directly to your local veterinarian. Veterinarians interested in importing the vaccine to the U.S. should contact ISDA.
 
What should I do if I have a rabbit die or find wild rabbit carcasses?
If you are concerned about an animal you own which has died, contact your veterinarian right away. If you have found/seen wild rabbits which have died, notify the Idaho Department of Fish and Game Wildlife Health Lab at (208) 939-9171.
 
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease is a reportable disease in Idaho.
 
If you have a question that is not covered here, please visit the USDA Risk Identification information on RHD or contact Animal Industries by email or phone at (208) 332-8540.