MEMBER ALERT: Central Coast RHDV1-K5 Wild Rabbit Control Program

25 Feb 2022

The NSW Local Land Services (LLS) advises of the release of Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV-K5) as part of a wild rabbit control program in the Central Coast Local Government Area (LGA). The RHDV1-K5 is scheduled to be released as a live virus in a solution of chopped carrots on the 17 March 2022. 
 
LLS encourages vets in the Central Coast LGA to inform clients of the need to vaccinate pet rabbits, as RHDV-K5 affects all rabbits. For best protection pet rabbits should be vaccinated prior to 1 March 2022. 
 
Of note:  

  • RHDV-K5 is spread by insects (such as fleas and flies), via direct contact between rabbits and by predator faeces (cat, dog and fox). 
  • RHDV is species specific; RHDV affects only rabbits (Oryctolagus cuninulus). 
  • RHDV is not harmful to native animals or domestic pets other than rabbits.  

For more information on the release of RHDV-K5 in the Central Coast LGA please see attached a copy of the LLS notice.