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A Deadly Rabbit Disease Has Been Identified In BC

deadly rabbit disease in BC

Testing by health officials have confirmed a deadly rabbit disease in BC.

It has been confirmed that two feral rabbits in Saanich died from from a highly infectious virus. The virus is called rabbit hemorrhagic disease, caused by a calicivirus.

This same virus was confirmed last year, but the source remains unknown.

The disease is “an extremely infectious and lethal disease that is exclusive to rabbits”.

Symptoms may include:

  • Loss of appetite
  • Lethargy
  • High fever
  • Spasms
  • Sudden death

Once a rabbit is infected, symptoms are noticeable in 1-9 days.

Vaccines are available to pet owners and can be accessed at veterinary clinics around the province.

For more local British Columbia news, stay tuned to 604 Now News.

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