Pet rabbit owners should make sure their rabbits are vaccinated against the new strain of rabbit calicivirus. The virus is currently being released in Golden Plains Shire and across Victoria to assist in the management of pest rabbits.
Fact sheet
The new strain of calicivirus, referred to as 'K5', is a variant of the existing calicivirus already established and widespread across Australia.
A vaccine is available to help protect pet rabbits from the various strains of the virus.
The Australian Veterinary Association recommends that for best protection against the current virus as well as previously released variants, the following protocols should be followed:
- Infant rabbits (kittens): 4, 8, 12 weeks of age, then every 6 months.
- Adults: 2 vaccinations 1 month apart, then every 6 months.
More information is available on the fact sheet above, from your local vet or at PetSmart or the Australian Veterinary Association