Rabbit show participants can help prevent the spread of RHDV2 by taking general prevention efforts described on our WHAT CAN YOU DO page.
Below are specific actions that domestic rabbit show participants can take to further reduce the risk of spreading RHDV2:
- Immediately report sick or dead rabbits to your state agriculture agency. Do not handle the animal unless direct otherwise.
- Vaccinate your domestic rabbits to minimize your rabbit’s risk of death
- Check whether RHDV2 cases have been confirmed in the county you are showing your rabbits and take appropriate biosecurity measures to protect your rabbits and prevent the spread of RHDV2.
- Have separate footwear for areas with and without your rabbit(s).
- Wash your hands before and after handling or caring for rabbits.
- Do not handle other people’s rabbits or allow visitors to handle your rabbits without cleaning their hands and clothing.
- Remove all visible organic debris from items to be disinfected (cages, feeding equipment, waterers, etc.). Items made of wood are best discarded or burned.
- Clean hard surfaces with a solution of 10% bleach or 10% sodium hydroxide mixed with water.
- Clean your clothes and shoes after any interactions with a rabbit.
- Limit your movement of products that have come in contact with rabbits.
Protecting your rabbits during shows:
- Keep your rabbits from interacting with other rabbits at the exhibitions.
- Separate your returning rabbits from the colony for 30 days.
- Avoid moving rabbits long distances. If necessary, take biosecurity measures to limit rabbit interactions until they reach their final destination.
- Ask the show organizers what steps they are taking to reduce the risk of RHDV2 spread.
You can find a printable document containing this information
under the DOCUMENTS provided on our RESOURCES page.
For additional information, please see what specific actions other groups can take: