Rabbit Myxomatosis and RVHD Prevention: Vaccination Welfare

Overview of rabbit myxomatosis and RVHD prevention through vaccination and biosecurity.

Key Facts

Myxomatosis is widespread in wild UK rabbit populations and fatal in unvaccinated pet rabbits
Rabbit Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (RVHD) has two strains, both potentially lethal
Annual vaccination against myxomatosis and RVHD is recommended for pet rabbits
Insect vector control reduces myxomatosis transmission risk for outdoor rabbits
RVHD2 spread across Europe from 2010 requiring addition of RVHD2 vaccine component

Welfare Considerations

Rabbit myxomatosis and RVHD welfare is preventable through vaccination, making vaccination one of the highest-impact rabbit welfare interventions. Both diseases cause severe suffering and death. RVHD2 spread has made vaccination even more critical. Outdoor rabbits face the highest exposure risk through insect vectors for myxomatosis and environmental contamination for RVHD. Annual vaccination and biosecurity measures are the welfare foundations of responsible rabbit ownership.

What You Can Do

Vaccinate pet rabbits annually against myxomatosis and both RVHD strains
Implement insect control measures for outdoor rabbits to reduce myxomatosis transmission
Seek immediate veterinary attention if a rabbit shows signs of either disease