ATTENTION RABBIT OWNERS: Important Calicivirus update

By John Morgan | Dated January 25, 2017

In light of the information below, the Australian Veterinary Association is recommending that all pet rabbits are vaccinated every 6 months against calicivirus, instead of the previous recommendation of every 12 months. IF YOU HAVE NEVER VACCINATED YOUR RABBIT BEFORE IT IS VITAL A BOOSTER COURSE IS PERFORMED AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Please call us to arrange this on 94983000.

We have recently received notification about the Northern Sydney release of a new calicivirus strain in the next few weeks.

Calicivirus, also known as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus, was first released as a control measure for wild rabbits in 1995, however since then it has become significantly less effective. In an attempt to get improved wild rabbit control, a new variant of this virus is about to be released, which the current calicivirus vaccine is protective against.

Unfortunately, another strain of calicivirus, which was originally released in France in 2010 has also appeared in Australia. The vaccine that we have in Australia is not completely protective against this strain from France.

Calicivirus is transmitted via insects such as flies and fleas, from rabbit to rabbit, and also via the faeces of predators. The virus is not harmful to people or other animals including wildlife, cats and dogs.

Dr Helen and Dr Gen placing a catheter in a rabbit.

Written by John Morgan

John first started with Gordon Vet Hospital back in 2004 as a weekend Nurse while studying Veterinary Science. When he graduated he worked in Goulburn for a few years before spending 2 years doing locum work through Canada. John returned to Australia in 2013 and came back to Gordon Vet Hospital. John completed his postgraduate studies in Small Animal Practice in 2013 and in 2015 gained Membership to the Australian and New Zealand College of Veterinary Scientists in Small Animal Surgery.

Comments

Rabbit Whisperer | Sunday September 17th, 2023 | Reply

I find this change to vaccinations a ‘money grab’ are they seriously trying to tell us that during Winter months in Australia pet rabbits are exposed to mosquitos etc ! It has been 12 x months since we can remember with our 12 x rabbits who live in protected cages from insects etc…….. we will be remaining with 12 x months!

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ATTENTION RABBIT OWNERS: Important Calicivirus update

Written by John Morgan

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ATTENTION RABBIT OWNERS: Important Calicivirus update

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