South Africa is grappling with the spread of a deadly rabbit virus, rabbit haemorrhagic disease (RHD), which is causing alarm among rabbit owners and conservationists. Originally identified in China, the virus made its way into South Africa through illegal imports.

The disease was first detected in the Northern and Western Cape provinces in November 2022. It soon spread to the Eastern Cape, where wild rabbits began dying in significant numbers. By February 2024, the outbreak had worsened, spreading to neighbouring provinces, and has now reached all corners of the country. Rabbit owners and the public have been urged to report any cases of deceased rabbits to help curb the virus’s spread.

RHD is particularly dangerous as it can survive in dry conditions and is transmitted between rabbits. Rabbits aged 6-8 weeks can carry the virus asymptomatically, making early detection challenging.

Emotional Support Animals at Risk

Rabbits have become increasingly popular as emotional support animals for neurodivergent individuals, as they produce less sensory overstimulation. With over 80% of domestic rabbits vaccinated against RHD, this group of pet owners has played a vital role in managing the spread.

However, the cost of vaccination—around R600 per dose—has posed a barrier for many. Some rabbit owners, particularly those who view rabbits as disposable pets or ornamental animals, have neglected to vaccinate or report infections, exacerbating the crisis.

A Call for Responsible Rabbit Care

The Southern Cape Bunny Haven conducted an informal census in 2020, estimating South Africa’s rabbit population to be around 128,000, including feral rabbits. Between May 2023 and May 2024, over 40,000 rabbit deaths were attributed to RHD, though reporting has dwindled due to misinformation, online bullying, and resistance from anti-vaccination groups.

Data collected through the website rhd-of-africa.com and WhatsApp channels has revealed inconsistencies, with some false cases being reported. Despite these efforts, nearly half of the rabbit-keeping population did not participate in surveys or report cases, leaving a significant gap in understanding the full extent of the outbreak.

The Way Forward

To combat RHD, experts stress the importance of vaccination, responsible rabbit care, and adherence to guidelines on reporting and proper disposal of deceased rabbits. Owners are urged to seek accurate information and prioritise the welfare of their pets.

The fight against RHD is a collective responsibility. By taking action and fostering cooperation among rabbit owners, South Africa can protect its rabbit population and prevent further devastation caused by this highly contagious disease.