The following is a media release post from the Western Australia Department of Agriculture and Food:

Rabbit owners are advised to take steps to protect their pets from a new Strain of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus which is being released across Australia.

The virus known as RHDV1 K5 will be released across the country during the first week of March 2017. The virus us a vital tool aimed at reducing the population of pest rabbits.

The department is alerting owners of domestic rabbits to ensure they are aware of the virus and take the proper steps to protect their pet rabbits from infection.

The same vaccine is available for the new strain and the strain released in 1996. Rabbit owners are urged to contact their local veterinarian for advice on vaccination.

The virus is contagious and cab be spread by direct contact between rabbit or insects.
To minimize the risk of infection:
* Keep rabbits indoors
* Rabbit proof backyards to prevent contact with pest rabbits
* Regularly decontaminate hutches, bowls as well as your own hands, shoes and clothing etc.
* Limit contact between and handling of unfamiliar pet rabbits
* Control insects (especially fleas and flies)
* Remove uneaten food on a daily basis.

For more information you can contact us at 08 9754 4422