Deadly rabbit virus confirmed in Orkney

Local veterinary practice Flett and Carmichael have confirmed the presence of a virus deadly to rabbits in the county and have said they are very sorry to report that several pet rabbits have been infected and died recently.

In the last couple of years, a new strain of a virus called Viral Haemorrhagic Diarrhoea (VHD-2) has been common on the Scottish Mainland and has been spreading northwards steadily. Flett and Carmichael have confirmed that they have had several cases in Orkney now too and have had definite confirmation from the lab that VHD-2 was the cause of death.

Vet and co-owner of the practice, Kate Carmichael said: “Viral Haemorrhagic Disease is a highly contagious disease which affects only rabbits and hares. It passes from rabbit to rabbit directly, in their faeces or through environmental contamination. It can also be spread by birds in their droppings and can be present on plants. It is fatal in a high proportion of cases and sudden death may be the only symptom, although some rabbits are seen ill first, and a small proportion can recover. It does not affect other species of animals or humans.

“Normal routine annual rabbit vaccines cover Myxomatosis and VHD-1, but do not cover this new strain of disease. However, we have now got a new vaccine for VHD-2 available as well and have been encouraging our rabbit owners to vaccinate their rabbits as soon as possible. Myxomatosis is currently being seen in wild rabbits in Orkney as well. It is spread by rabbit fleas. Any rabbits which have not been protected against this should also receive the vaccination for Myxomatosis and VHD-1.”

“It would be advisable in the meantime to try to keep rabbits inside until they are fully protected.”

Any pet owners seeking more information are being urged to contact their vet.