RVHD2 risk grows with heatwave

Health experts warn that hot weather could spread RVHD2 to UK rabbits, prompting guidance for owners to protect pets.

RVHD2 threat to UK rabbits amid heatwave risk

Health professionals warn that a heatwave could help RVHD2 reach UK shores. Medivet, a large veterinary group, says higher temperatures may boost biting flies that carry the virus, putting both domestic and wild rabbits at risk. RVHD2 can cause fever, loss of appetite, lethargy and bleeding, and it can lead to sudden death. The virus spreads through direct contact, contaminated objects, insects and even clothing, making it highly contagious across rabbit populations.

To reduce the risk, Medivet outlines seven steps for owners. They include keeping rabbits indoors or in secure housing during high-risk periods, using fine-mesh fencing to block wild rabbits and insects, limiting contact with other rabbits, quarantining new arrivals for 30 days, avoiding hay or vegetation from wild areas, using sealed water sources, and maintaining strict hygiene. Vaccination is key, with a vaccine that may protect against current UK strains and the new strain, though UK stock is currently out of stock and subject to monitoring while supply is secured.

The warning highlights a broader trend: climate-driven risks to animal health and the pressure it places on vets and vaccine supply chains. It also underscores the challenge of translating expert guidance into daily practice for pet owners, especially when vaccines are scarce. As weather patterns shift, clear, practical public guidance becomes essential to prevent abuse of precaution as well as fatal outcomes for rabbits. While the message is precautionary, it exposes a gap between knowledge and access that could fuel distrust if stockouts persist.

Highlights

Vigilance and practical care remain the best defense as climate risks grow.