A virus being deemed “bunny ebola” is spreading throughout several states.
The fatal rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV2) affects wild and domestic rabbits, as well as hares and pikas. It’s been found in Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Utah, Business Insider reports.
The virus kills rabbits quickly, and it can survive more months at room temperature. In many cases, rabbit show no signs of illness before they die.
The virus does not affect other animals or humans.
From March to June, almost 500 animals in New Mexico were infected, according to Business Insider. “We still have no idea where it originated,” said Ralph Zimmerman, state veterinarian for New Mexico.
Veterinarians are importing a vaccine, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking to produce one domestically, Business Insider reports.
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