By Zuko Komisa
An outbreak of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) has been confirmed in the Western Cape and Northern Cape.
The Western Cape and Northern Cape provinces have experienced an outbreak of Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD), according to the Department of Agriculture, Land Reform, and Rural Development (DALRRD).
According to the agency, there have been reports of a wild rabbit and hare die-off in the Karoo regions of the Western and Northern Cape.
“State veterinary services, private veterinarians and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment were involved in field investigations. Post-mortems were performed and samples collected to confirm the cause of the deaths.”
“Diagnostic tests were performed at the Onderstepoort Veterinary Research Laboratory and the cause was confirmed as Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease,” the department said in a statement.
Also Read: Where there are a lot of fish in the sea, how do we choose a partner
The department cautioned that as the virus appears to be very resistant and persistent, especially when exposed to harsh environmental circumstances, the carcasses of RHD-infected rabbits could be a significant source for viral propagation.
Owners of rabbits have been instructed to protect their animals and to avoid any direct or indirect interaction with other rabbits or hares through persons or tools.
READ NEXT: Man United’s official statement on Ronaldo and Piers Morgan interview



