Zombie rabbit health story clarified

A clear look at the so called zombie rabbit disease and what it means for pets and other animals.

Zombie rabbit disease poses no risk to pets

CRPV, the Shope papillomavirus, causes rough red bumps around the ears, eyelids, neck and shoulders of rabbits. The virus is not a new problem in the United States and has been present for about a century, wildlife officials say. Online posts about zombie looking rabbits have spread faster than official updates, prompting calls for caution in what is shared as fact.

Transmission is mainly rabbit to rabbit, and there is no evidence the disease jumps to dogs, cats or people. The growths do not usually cause serious harm unless they interfere with eating, and many rabbits recover as their immune system fights the infection. Officials urge people who spot sick wildlife to report it through official channels rather than relying on social media photos.

The story reveals how quickly wildlife questions go viral before experts weigh in. It shows the importance of patient, evidence based reporting and the risk of sensational framing around odd animal appearances.

It also clarifies a basic point for readers: looking strange does not automatically mean danger to households. Communicators should connect curiosity with reliable sources and steer readers toward official channels for verification and reporting.

Highlights

Ongoing updates from wildlife agencies will keep this topic grounded in fact