VHD outbreak in north east England

Following the alert that was sent recently, we are repeating the message as below, which was taken from a newspaper published at the end of January.. Since the alert, there have been reports of an outbreak of VHD in the North east of England..



"Scotlands wild rabbit population is in danger of being totally wiped out by a deadly disease which is killing them in their thousands.

Colonies from the Borders to Aberdeen are being decimated by an outbreak of Viral Haemorrhagic disease. Experts have warned that the plague which strikes wild and pet rabbits could kill as much as 90% of the Scottish population and are calling for more to be done to monitor its spread. "

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Please be aware that VHD is highly contagious and once this virus takes a real hold in the countryside, it will sweep down from Scotland into England and Wales very quickly. How can pet rabbits catch VHD ?

* Hay may have been in contact with infected wild rabbits as grass growing in the field.

* Birds or insects may transport the virus on their feet ( or in their droppings) to your rabbits grazing on the lawn

* The virus may be blown on the wind

* You may bring the virus home on your feet ( or car wheels from rabbit droppings)

Please ensure that your rabbit has been vaccinated for both VHD and Myxomatosis and warn family or friends with a bunny how important it is that they are protected.

Wow, that is really bad news. I live in Cornwall but I will still be wary. My bun is up to date with his jabs

Thank you for telling us.

Jo xx

Please do crosspost wherever you think rabbit owners may read it

We will of course. Its shocking how few people even know their buns need vaccinating. Its a message we always try to push here, and its good to have these updates so that we are aware of the problem.

Katie