Deadly Rabbit Disease Outbreak Confirmed in Gqeberha

A recent outbreak of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus2 (RHDV2), endangering hares and rabbits, has been confirmed in Gqeberha, South Africa by local veterinarians. The confirmation came after Algoa FM News caught wind of the dire situation from a Theescombe resident who reported at least 15 rabbit deaths on their smallholding this month.

The director of the Department of Rural Development and Agrarian Reform, Dr. Cebisa Mnqeta, informed that the State Veterinarian has so far ascertained one case of a feral rabbit that tested positive. Dr. Mnqeta also affirmed the critical role the public, especially farmers and residents living on smallholdings, plays in controlling the outbreak. Any related mortalities should be reported to the State's vet, Jared Strydom, who can be reached via WhatsApp on 066 302 0871.

RHDV2 is species-specific, affecting only rabbits and hares and poses no risk to other animals or humans. The virus though, can decimate up to 80% of wild lagomorph populations, explains conservationists, signifying lasting implications for biodiversity.

RHDV2 hit South Africa once earlier between October 2022 and February 2023, causing a massive loss of wild hares and domestic rabbits across the Northern, Western, and portions of the Eastern Cape. The Endangered Wildlife Trust reported a resurgence of the disease in July in Knysna and the Langkloof.

As the virus is highly infectious and fatal, rabbit owners are encouraged to enforce strict quarantine measures. A vaccine verified healthy rabbits can be obtained from local vets. Public members are cautioned against handling or moving rabbit carcasses to prevent the disease from spreading further.