Vaccination throughout life

Vaccination throughout life against some nasty diseases

Myxomatosis vaccine.

Myxomatosis is widespread in the U.K. and is spread by any biting insect. Myxomatosis causes swellings in the eyelids, head and skin. It is usually fatal within 10 - 14 days.

VHD (Viral Haemorrahagic Disease) vaccine.

A relatively new disease of rabbits that has been spreading northwards for the past 15 years. We have seen it in East Lancashire since 1999. Causes sudden death, so we never see a case alive. The virus can survive on the ground for a long time and transmits on shoes, clothing etc. so even indoor rabbits are at risk.

Both of these vaccinations can now be given as a combined injection once yearly. Vaccination is very effective, and remember, your rabbits gets a health check up at every vaccination.

 30 years ago..... (David Higginson MRCVS remembers)

Myxomatosis vaccine has been available for many years but only in bulk supplies for 25 rabbits at a time (i.e. for rabbit breeders). Only in the last few years have individual vials been available.
VHD is a new disease that first appeared in the U.K. in 1992 and only reached Blackburn in 1999.