New strain of rabbit calicivirus confirmed in Bay of Plenty

The strain of rabbit calicivirus was found in rabbits on a farm in Rotoehu.

A new strain of rabbit calcivirus has been found on a Rotoehu farm.

The already-identified strain was found after two wild rabbits were tested.

This is the second time that the strain has been confirmed in New Zealand. The first confirmation was in a single wild rabbit found on Marlborough farm in May.

Called RHDV2, the new strain is widespread in Europe, but until recently it had not been found in New Zealand.

Bay of Plenty Regional Council biosecurity manager Greg Corbett said, although landowners would be happy about a new strain helping them in their war against wild rabbits, pet rabbit owners could be concerned.

He advised pet rabbit owners to talk to their vets.

"It's not uncommon for new strains to spread, and a rabbit owner's best defence is to make sure their pets are up to date with their vaccinations," said Corbett.

Pet rabbit owners can also protect against the virus by limiting their contact with wild rabbits.

Minimise the risk to pet rabbits
- Keep them separate from wild rabbits.
- Wash hands between handling rabbits.
- Control insects around pet rabbits as they can spread the virus between rabbits.
- Avoid cutting grass and feeding it to pet rabbits.
- Thoroughly clean and disinfect cages and equipment.
- Talk with your vet or see the Ministry of Primary Industries' website for more.