Connecticut becomes 27th State with RHDV2

The Connecticut Department of Agriculture has confirmed Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type 2 (RHDV2) at a private residence in Hartford County. Press release HERE.

On September 6, 2022, a report of sudden death in 13 of 14 rabbits was reported to the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, and samples were submitted on the same day to the USDA Foreign Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory. The 14th rabbit died on September 8, 2022. RHDV2 detection was confirmed via laboratory testing on September 11, 2022.

In Connecticut, all veterinarians and rabbit owners are encouraged to be alert for RHDV2 and continue practicing good biosecurity to prevent the spread of RHDV2. If a veterinarian suspects RHDV2, please alert the Connecticut Department of Agriculture, Office of the State Veterinarian at 860- 713-2505 or the 24-hour number to report a suspect foreign animal disease to USDA APHIS VS Area Veterinarian in Charge is 866-536-7593.

To report unusual deaths in wild rabbits, email: deep.wildlife@ct.gov. Please include location information, your contact information, and, if possible, a photo of the rabbit.