Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2): Symptoms, Outbreak Maps, Vaccination & Prevention
Updated: 3 days ago
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2) is one of the most serious infectious disease threats facing domestic and wild rabbit populations. It spreads easily, can cause rapid illness and death, and many rabbit owners have never heard of it.
Whether you own a pet rabbit, operate a rescue, or simply want to understand this disease, this guide explains what RHDV2 is, where it has been detected, how it spreads, and what you can do to protect rabbits.
RHDV2 at a Glance
Category | Information |
Disease name | Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease |
Virus | Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 |
Virus family | Caliciviridae |
Emergence of RHDV2 | France, around 2010 |
Primary hosts | Rabbits and certain other lagomorphs |
Transmission | Direct contact and contaminated materials |
Human health risk | No known human infection |
Treatment | No specific cure |
Prevention | Vaccination and biosecurity |
Distribution | Multiple continents worldwide |
Important: RHDV2 can affect both domestic and wild rabbits. Vaccination and good biosecurity practices are important even for rabbits that live entirely indoors.
What Is RHDV2?
Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus 2 (RHDV2) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by a calicivirus.
The virus primarily affects the liver and can interfere with normal blood clotting. Severe infections can cause organ damage, internal bleeding and rapidly progressing illness.
In the United States, RHDV2 has been documented in wild and domestic rabbit populations across multiple states.
Most infected rabbits that develop severe clinical disease die within a short period. Some show very few warning signs before becoming seriously ill.
Currently, there is no cure for RHDV2.
Learn more: USDA APHIS – Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease
Where Has RHDV2 Been Detected?
RHDV2 is no longer restricted to one country or continent. It has been documented across multiple geographical regions, affecting domestic and wild rabbit populations.
Government agencies, veterinary organizations and wildlife researchers continue to monitor its distribution.
Worldwide Distribution
RHDV2 has been reported in:
Europe: The region where RHDV2 first emerged, with detections in numerous countries.
North America: Cases have been documented in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
South America: RHDV2 has been reported in parts of the region.
Africa: Multiple countries have reported detections.
Asia: The disease has been documented in several countries.
Australia and New Zealand: Both countries have experienced RHDV2 outbreaks.
Note that a country having reported RHDV2 in the past does not necessarily mean it currently has an active outbreak. Always verify the date and source of any outbreak data you read.
A historical detection does not necessarily mean a country currently has an active outbreak.
For a broader understanding of the virus's international spread, consult the following resources:
RHDV2 in the United States
The United States has experienced significant RHDV2 activity since the virus was first detected.
The USDA National Wildlife Disease Program has reported detections in wild rabbit populations across at least 14 states.
Explore the official outbreak map:
The USDA map provides information about reported detections. A confirmed detection does not mean every rabbit in the surrounding area is infected.
For additional information:
RHDV2 in Canada
RHDV2 has also been detected in Canada, affecting domestic and feral rabbit populations.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has documented detections in Ontario, Quebec, Alberta and British Columbia.
The CFIA identifies rabbit hemorrhagic disease as a federally reportable animal disease.
Canada also has an authorized RHD vaccine produced by Filavie, which was licensed in July 2022. Ceva Animal Health is the designated Canadian distributor.
Canadian rabbit owners should consult their veterinarian about vaccination availability and local disease risks.
Canadian resources:
Why Is RHDV2 So Dangerous?
Three characteristics make RHDV2 particularly concerning for rabbit owners.
It Can Kill Quickly
Severe illness can develop rapidly. Death may occur within one to three days after clinical signs develop.
Some infected rabbits show very few warning signs before becoming seriously ill.
It Is Environmentally Resilient
RHDV2 can remain infectious in contaminated materials and withstand challenging environmental conditions, including freezing temperatures.
This makes appropriate cleaning and disinfection particularly important.
It Spreads Through Multiple Routes
The virus can spread through:
Direct contact with infected rabbits.
Contact with infected blood, secretions, fur or carcasses.
Contaminated food and water.
Bedding, cages and equipment.
Contaminated footwear, clothing and hands.
Mechanical transmission involving insects.
Potentially contaminated vegetation and other materials.
Even rabbits that never meet another rabbit can be exposed through contaminated objects brought into their environment.
Its Impact on Wildlife
RHDV2 is not exclusively a domestic rabbit disease.
It has also affected wild rabbit and hare populations, creating concerns about wildlife conservation and ecological impacts.
This is particularly concerning in regions where native rabbit populations already face environmental pressures.
Signs and Symptoms of RHDV2
One of the most concerning aspects of RHDV2 is that infected rabbits may show no noticeable symptoms before becoming fatally ill. Because the disease often kills before symptoms fully develop, many owners never get a warning. That said, some rabbits do show signs in their final hours.
When symptoms do develop, they can include:
Sudden, unexplained death (the most common presentation).
High fever above 104°F (40°C).
Lethargy and unusual tiredness.
Loss of appetite.
Difficulty breathing.
Blood-stained discharge from the nose, mouth, or rectum.
Blood spots in the eyes.
Loss of coordination or uncontrolled paddling movements.
Seizures or other neurological abnormalities.
Not every infected rabbit will show all of these signs. If your rabbit shows any of them, contact a rabbit-experienced or exotic-animal veterinarian immediately. Do not wait for additional symptoms to develop.
Keep the rabbit separated from any other rabbits while following your veterinarian's instructions. Laboratory testing is required to confirm RHDV2 as the cause.
Getting Your Rabbit Vaccinated
Vaccination is an important part of RHDV2 prevention.
Several countries have approved or licensed vaccines against the disease, although availability and vaccination schedules vary.
United States
The USDA has issued a conditional license for an RHDV2 vaccine manufactured by Medgene Labs.
Rabbit owners should contact their veterinarian or state animal-health authority to confirm local availability and the appropriate vaccination schedule.
Ask your veterinarian about:
The recommended initial doses.
The interval between doses.
When protection is expected to develop.
Booster requirements.
Whether the vaccine is appropriate for your rabbit.
Canada
The Canadian Centre for Veterinary Biologics licensed an RHD vaccine produced by Filavie in July 2022.
Ceva Animal Health is the designated Canadian distributor.
Canadian rabbit owners can contact their veterinarian to discuss obtaining the vaccine and establishing an appropriate vaccination schedule.
Official resources:
Vaccination significantly reduces disease risk but should not replace biosecurity precautions.
Biosecurity: Practical Steps Every Rabbit Owner Should Take
Even vaccinated rabbits benefit from good biosecurity habits.
RHDV2 can enter a home through contaminated footwear, hands, clothing, food or equipment.
Here are practical steps rabbit owners can take.
Keep Rabbits Indoors
Indoor rabbits generally have less exposure to wild lagomorphs and contaminated outdoor environments.
If your rabbit spends time outdoors, use a secure enclosure that reduces contact with wild animals and insects.
Remove Shoes at the Door
Shoes can carry contaminated material into your home.
Consider removing outdoor footwear before entering areas where your rabbit lives.
Wash Hands and Change Clothes
Wash your hands before and after handling rabbits.
After visiting pet stores, rabbit shows, rescue facilities or other places where rabbits are kept, consider changing clothes before handling your own animals.
Avoid Foraged Greens and Wild Hay
Avoid collecting wild plants, grasses or branches for your rabbit from areas where contamination may be possible.
Purchase hay and food from reputable suppliers.
Quarantine New Rabbits
New rabbits should be kept separate from resident rabbits while their health and possible exposure risks are assessed.
Use dedicated food bowls, water containers and handling equipment.
Follow your veterinarian's advice about the appropriate isolation period.
Control Insects
Flies and other insects may mechanically transfer contaminated material.
Keep rabbit living areas clean, manage waste appropriately and use suitable insect screening where possible.
Disinfect Properly
Standard household cleaners may not reliably kill RHDV2.
In the United States, the Environmental Protection Agency maintains List O, which identifies disinfectants expected to be effective against RHDV2 when used according to their labels.
When choosing a disinfectant:
Check the exact product against the current EPA List O.
Follow the manufacturer's dilution instructions.
Observe the required surface contact time.
Confirm the product is suitable for the surface being cleaned.
Keep rabbits away until treated surfaces are safe for them.
Official resource: EPA – List O RHDV2 Disinfectants
Canadian owners should also consult local veterinary guidance and applicable product labels.
What to Do If You Suspect RHDV2
f your rabbit suddenly becomes seriously ill or dies unexpectedly, immediate veterinary guidance is important.
1. Contact a Veterinarian
Contact a rabbit-experienced or exotic-animal veterinarian immediately.
Explain the symptoms and any possible exposure to other rabbits.
2. Isolate the Rabbit
Keep the potentially infected rabbit separated from other rabbits.
Follow your veterinarian's instructions about handling and isolation.
3. Avoid Moving Potentially Contaminated Materials
Do not move cages, bedding, food containers or other equipment between rabbit enclosures.
Ask your veterinarian for guidance on handling deceased animals.
4. Follow Professional Disinfection Guidance
Use an appropriate disinfectant and follow its instructions.
Do not introduce another rabbit into a potentially contaminated environment until a veterinarian or animal-health authority has advised you about cleaning, disinfection and suitable waiting periods.
5. Report Suspected Cases
In the United States, contact your state animal-health authority.
In Canada, contact your veterinarian and follow applicable provincial and CFIA reporting guidance.
Reporting suspected cases helps animal-health authorities monitor disease activity.
Frequently Asked Questions About RHDV2
Can humans catch RHDV2?
No known human infections have been associated with RHDV2. The virus is not considered a human health threat. However, people can mechanically transfer contaminated material between rabbits on their clothing, hands, or footwear.
Can dogs or cats catch RHDV2?
Dogs and cats are not considered susceptible hosts for RHDV2. However, they may potentially carry contaminated material on their fur or paws and transfer it to rabbits in the home.
Can indoor rabbits get RHDV2?
Yes. Indoor housing reduces some exposure risks but does not eliminate them. Contaminated footwear, clothing, hands, food, or equipment can introduce the virus into an indoor environment. Biosecurity habits matter even for house rabbits.
Can vaccinated rabbits still get sick?
Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of disease but should not be treated as a guarantee of complete protection. Continue following recommended biosecurity precautions and speak with your veterinarian about keeping your rabbit's vaccination status current.
Is there a cure for RHDV2?
There is currently no specific cure for RHDV2. Veterinarians can provide supportive care, but the disease has a high mortality rate. Prevention through vaccination and biosecurity is the best approach.
Does RHDV2 affect wild rabbits?
Yes. RHDV2 has been detected in multiple wild rabbit and hare species. Wildlife surveillance is an important part of understanding the virus's geographical distribution and ecological impact.
How long can RHDV2 survive in the environment?
The virus is environmentally resistant and can persist in contaminated materials for up to 15 weeks in dry conditions. It also survives freezing temperatures. Its persistence depends on environmental conditions and the material involved. There is no single waiting period appropriate for every situation. Consult your veterinarian for specific guidance.
Where can I find current outbreak information?
The USDA APHIS interactive outbreak map is the best resource for US detections. Canadian rabbit owners should consult the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. For international information, consult the World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH). The House Rabbit Society also maintains an RHDV2 resource hub at houserabbit.org.
Recommended Products for Rabbit Owners
These are products that rabbit owners should genuinely consider keeping on hand. Links below are Amazon affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Rescue Disinfectant Spray
An EPA List O-approved accelerated hydrogen peroxide disinfectant. Effective against RHDV2 on hard, non-porous surfaces with a short contact time. Safe to use around pets once dry.
Virkon S Disinfectant
A broad-spectrum veterinary disinfectant used worldwide in animal facilities. Available in powder or tablet form. Mix a 1% solution and apply with a 10-minute contact time for best results.
Disposable Shoe Covers
Simple and affordable biosecurity for anyone who spends time around wild rabbits or other people's pets. Slip them on before entering a barn, rescue, or pet store, then discard before coming home.
Insect Screen Mesh
Flies and mosquitoes can carry RHDV2 mechanically. If your rabbit has an outdoor enclosure, fine mesh screening is an essential layer of protection against insect vectors.
Rabbit Exercise Pen (for quarantine)
A sturdy, freestanding exercise pen gives you a dedicated quarantine space for new rabbits. Look for panels that are at least 30 inches tall and easy to clean and disinfect.
Nitrile Disposable Gloves
Wear gloves when handling a sick or quarantined rabbit and when cleaning and disinfecting enclosures. Powder-free nitrile gloves are comfortable, durable, and widely available in bulk.
Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you make a purchase through these links, at no additional cost to you.
Official Sources and Further Reading
The following organizations provide additional information about RHDV2, animal-health surveillance, vaccination and prevention.
United States
Canada
International
The Bottom Line
RHDV2 is a serious and ongoing threat to domestic and wild rabbit populations around the world.
Its rapid progression, ability to spread through contaminated materials and environmental resilience make prevention essential.
Fortunately, rabbit owners have several ways to reduce the risk:
Discuss vaccination with a rabbit-experienced veterinarian.
Maintain good household biosecurity.
Prevent unnecessary contact with unfamiliar rabbits.
Use appropriate cleaning and disinfection practices.
Stay informed about local disease detections.
Follow official animal-health guidance.
RHDV2 is not something rabbit owners should ignore. Understanding the disease and taking reasonable precautions can make an important difference in protecting domestic rabbits.
Stay informed, practice good biosecurity and speak with your veterinarian about protecting your rabbit.
Medical and Editorial Disclaimer
This article is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Disease information, outbreak locations and vaccine availability can change. Readers should consult their local veterinary professionals and official animal-health authorities for the latest information.
This article has not been independently reviewed by a veterinarian. External sources should be checked for their latest publication and update dates.
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