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SINGAPORE – A highly contagious, acute and deadly disease primarily affecting rabbits was first detected in Singapore on Wednesday (September 16) and eight have succumbed to it, the Animal & Veterinary Service (AVS) said.
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease is not transmitted from animals to people and does not affect other animal species, the AVS, which reports to the National Parks Board, said Thursday.
The virus that caused the disease was detected in pet rabbit samples sent by a veterinary clinic.
“Based on research carried out so far, there may be up to 11 affected rabbits in the group and eight have died. None of the cases are known to have a travel history. Epidemiological investigations are ongoing, ”said the AVS.
The AVS said it would work with veterinary clinics and distributors to import and register vaccines for the disease.
Stakeholders such as veterinarians and relevant animal welfare groups and pet establishments have also committed to sharing related information and warnings, he added.
“Stakeholders are advised to implement strict biosecurity protocols to minimize the risk of disease transmission between rabbits from different households, including areas of sanitation, disinfection and isolation, and to report any suspected cases to the AVS,” he added.
The virus that causes it is transmitted between rabbits through direct contact with infected fluids, skins, and carcasses.
Transmission through objects, for example shoes, clothing and equipment, and insects, has also been recorded.
Surviving rabbits can continue shedding the virus for at least a month after recovering. The incubation period for the disease is one to five days.
Clinical signs may include anorexia, dullness, prostration, signs of nervousness, moaning and crying, or respiratory signs such as shortness of breath or a runny nose.
Death can occur within 12 to 36 hours after the clinical signs appear. Supportive care can be provided for infected rabbits, but there is no specific treatment available for the disease.
Cases have been reported all over the world, in places like Europe, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, parts of Asia, in both domestic and wild rabbit populations.
It is an animal disease of mandatory notification in Singapore and before the World Organization for Animal Health; all suspected cases must be reported to the AVS.
The risk of disease is low for rabbits that are housed indoors with minimal outdoor exposure and for rabbits from other households. Pet owners are advised to:
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