Photo: iStock
The National Council of Societies for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (NSPCA) has warned of an outbreak of rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD).
RHD was first detected in the Northern Cape in November 2022. It is a highly infectious viral disease that affects rabbits.
“The NSPCA has from the onset of the outbreak called upon the rabbit industry and those keeping rabbits for financial gain to take responsibility during this outbreak,” said Jacques Peacock, spokesperson for the NSCPA.
He added, due to lack funding, it was now the responsibility of those who bred or farmed rabbits to raise funds to fight the outbreak.
“Breeders have now resorted to crowdfunding to vaccinate their rabbits, or worse, to buy feed,” said Peacock.
READ ALSO: Dog owners take note: Possible canine distemper outbreak in Brakpan area
“RHD is highly contagious and fatal, affecting rabbits and hares. Unfortunately, infected animals may not display visible signs until it’s too late,” he said.
The virus spreads through direct contact with other animals, or through blood, nasal, and oral secretions of infected rabbits. It can also survive on surfaces such as clothes, shoes, blankets, and feed, posing a significant risk of transmission. Biting insects may also be carriers.
READ ALSO: Scientists raise alarm about potential listeriosis outbreak in beef products in SA
“We call upon the rabbit industry and those keeping rabbits for financial gain to take responsibility during this outbreak. SPCAs across the country are informed of this concerning disease and will be attending to pro-active and reactive concerns,” said the NSPCA.
Download our app and read this and other great stories on the move. Available for Android and iOS.
