PDSA reveals upsurge in cases of Myxomatosis
A leading UK veterinary charity, the PDSA which has been running for some 91 years, has revealed huge increased in the number of rabbits diagnosed with myxomatosis over the past 12 month period.
Myxomatosis is a disease which can often be fatal to pet rabbits, and PetAid animal hospitals in the South East and the west Midlands have reported dramatic rises in the numbers of cases being presented at facilities there, whilst similar facilities in both Hull and Romford have reported a massive 300% surge in the numbers of cases of the disease.
Myxomatosis can be spread amongst a rabbit population by flies or fleas that bite as well as by contact with other infected rabbits.
Symptoms of the disease include lethargy, lack of appetite and inflammation of the rabbit’s eyelids, head and genitals.
Sean Wensley, a PDSA Senior Veterinary Surgeon offered advice to worried rabbit owners, saying:-
“The effects of the myxomatosis virus are very distressing to witness and are usually fatal. By the time clinical signs have developed, such as facial and genital swelling, it is often too late to be able to help affected rabbits.
Myxomatosis is preventable through vaccination and protecting pet rabbits from disease and suffering should be a priority. I strongly advise owners to ask their vet about vaccinations, as well as how to minimise numbers of biting insects.
PDSA is drawing attention to these outbreaks because rabbit owners should be aware that myxomatosis is present and can cause terrible suffering if rabbits are not protected from the disease.”
He concluded there was presently no proof of a countrywide pandemic or of the disease being transmitted to any other species of animal.