(tn.gov/Peg Broadcasting News)
Tennessee’s State Veterinarian wants to make citizens aware that an outbreak of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus type 2 (RHDV2) has been detected near the Tennessee border in Arkansas. There have been no cases found in Tennessee, but rabbit owners should be mindful of the heightened risk. Rabbit hemorrhagic disease does not affect humans or other animals. However, it is highly contagious and fatal to domestic rabbits, wild hares, and pika.
Do not handle dead wild rabbits. Hunters should wear gloves and disinfect tools, equipment, and hands after field dressing wild rabbits. Meat from healthy animals is safe for human consumption if dressed and cooked properly.
If you find dead wild rabbits, contact your Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency regional office. For the most current map of RHDV2 outbreaks, visit the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service website.