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Myxomatosis
A fatal viral disease that is transmitted by fleas and mosquitos.
Vaccination can be given from 6 weeks of age, ideally in April or May to give maximum level of protection during summer and autumn.
Annual boosters are essential [6-monthly in high-risk areas].
Viral Haemorrhagic Disease [VHD]
A fatal vial disease first seen in the UK in 1992.
The disease is airborne and can kill rabbits a long way from an outbreak area.
Death is caused by internal bleeding.
Vaccination can be given from 10 weeks of age, and annual boosters are essential.
Rabbit VHD has been confirmed in AlphaPet area
The disease is rapidly fatal, and the most common sign is sudden death. Occasionally, you may see a rabbit with bloody diarrhoea but by then it is always too late.
The disease is spread by direct and indirect contact, and by insect vectors such as fleas and biting flies.
The only protection is vaccination. Unfortunately it cannot be administered at the same time as the Myxomatosis vaccine - there needs to be a gap of at least 14 days.
If you have a rabbit that is not currently vaccinated, our advice is that you do so against both Myxomatosis and VHD as soon as possible.
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