#rabbit hemorrhagic virus disease vaccine

[bunnies-and-sunshine]

Nyoom!

Amos has the zoomies and is leaping hurdles that aren't even there to show how ready he is for the new week!

(This is good because he and Naomi are having their first vet check-up and are getting their RHDV2 vaccines today.)

[mauri2530]

Experts Advise, Offer New Vaccination for Pet Rabbits

COVID-19 hasn’t been the only global pandemic arriving on our shores recently. A new variant of rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV), previously common in wild rabbits in Europe, Asia, and Australia, was first detected in the United States in early 2020. It has now spread to multiple states in the U.S., particularly the western states.

How to Get the Vaccine

Vaccination clinics for RHDV will be held on the following dates at Veterinary Medicine South Clinic 2100 S Goodwin Ave, Urbana. Clinic Dates: * August 18, 2023 * September 15, 2023 * October 13, 2023

Call for an appointment: 217-244-2555

On July 13, 2023, the first case of RHDV was detected in the state of Illinois in a pet rabbit. The case was in Cook County. Prior to this detection, the disease had not been diagnosed in wild or domestic rabbits. This detection raises the level of concern for the health implications of both wild and domestic rabbits within Illinois.

If RHDV is detected or suspected in wild or domestic rabbits, it must be reported to the World Organisation for Animal Health.

Dr. Michelle Borsdorf, a board-certified specialist in zoological medicine at the University of Illinois Veterinary Teaching Hospital in Urbana, recommends that all pet rabbits be vaccinated against this new variant (RHDV2), which is more dangerous than earlier forms of the virus. This variant of RHDV has 70% to 100% mortality rates in pet rabbits.

Its presence in Illinois emphasizes the need to act now to vaccinate and protect against this disease!

What Is RHDV?

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus is a member of the calicivirus family. Other viruses in this family that do not cause rabbit health issues include norovirus, the most common cause of gastroenteritis (vomiting and diarrhea) in people, and a feline virus that causes respiratory disease.

RHDV infects wild and domestic species of rabbits and is highly contagious. It does not infect people or other animals. The virus travels through the blood stream of an infected rabbit and rapidly damages the cells of the liver. The liver makes proteins used in forming blood clots, and the classic form of RHDV causes uncontrollable bleeding in rabbits.

Clinical signs of rabbits infected with this virus will primarily include bleeding from the eyes, nose, or mouth, as well as jaundice (yellow discoloration of eyes and skin), which are related to severe liver dysfunction or failure. Affected rabbits may also develop respiratory or neurologic symptoms, or even present with more generalized signs of illness such as lethargy, reduced appetite, and lack of defecation or urination.

“Additionally, some rabbits do not exhibit symptoms prior to succumbing to the disease. This outcome, known as sudden death, illustrates how rapidly the disease can progress,” says Dr. Borsdorf.

How Does RHDV Spread?

Unfortunately, the virus survives well in any environment. Infected wild rabbits may shed the virus outside, and the virus can then be carried into the home on people’s clothing or shoes and introduced to pet rabbits. Any rabbit exposed to blood, urine, or feces of an infected rabbit could develop infection.  

Because RHDV is spread between rabbits, Dr. Borsdorf advises taking steps in your home to reduce the risk of RHDV infection.

Do not allow your pet rabbit to graze in outdoor areas that are frequented by wild rabbits.

Ensure that shoes worn outside are not worn in areas of the home where your pet rabbit has access.

Weeds and flowers from outdoor areas frequented by wild rabbits should not be fed to pet rabbits.

Always wash your hands before and after handling rabbits.

Vaccinate your pet rabbit.

Vaccination Against RHDV

In other countries where RHDV circulates, vaccinations against the virus are given to pet rabbits. Now that the threat to rabbit health is present in the U.S., the U.S. Department of Agriculture has authorized emergency use of the vaccine here. Distribution of the vaccine to veterinarians began in 2021.

Although the vaccine does not yet have full FDA approval, the approval process is ongoing. Preliminary research suggests that the vaccine is safe and effective in preventing infection. This is based on a challenge study performed where 100% of vaccinated rabbits survived when exposed to the virus, while 70% of the unvaccinated rabbits died from the disease.

Side effects of the vaccine have included mild swelling at the injection site and mild fever or lethargy for a few days after the vaccine is administered. To be effective, the vaccine requires two doses administered at least 3 weeks apart, and annual boosters thereafter.

Vaccination at the University of Illinois

The zoological medicine service will continue hosting vaccine clinics to administer vaccines and their boosters to pet rabbits once monthly. (See sidebar above for the current list of dates.) Veterinary interns, residents, and students as well as certified veterinary technicians will be involved in this process under supervision of faculty members. including Dr. Borsdorf, head of the zoological medicine service.

Because the clinic is focused on delivering vaccine to healthy animals, no diagnostic testing will be performed at that time.

Because of how the vaccine is packaged, vaccination will be offered only through the scheduled vaccine clinics and not through regular appointments with the zoological medicine service at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital.

To make an appointment for your rabbit to receive the vaccine, please call the Veterinary Medicine South Clinic at (217) 244-2555.

For more information, visit:

https://www.aphis.usda.gov/publications/animal_health/fs-rhdv2.pdf

https://rabbit.org/faq-for-medgenes-rhdv2-vaccine/

[petwellnessjournal]

Preventing Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) Through Vaccination and Hygiene

Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a deadly viral disease affecting rabbits worldwide. Preventing RHD is essential for keeping your pet rabbits safe and healthy. Vaccination is the most effective method to protect rabbits against both main strains, RHDV1 and RHDV2. It's important to consult with a veterinarian at an animal hospital in Virginia Beach to determine the appropriate vaccination schedule for your rabbit.

In addition to vaccination, maintaining good hygiene practices is critical. Regularly clean and disinfect cages, food dishes, and any equipment that comes into contact with your rabbits. Use effective disinfectants like bleach solutions to kill the virus on surfaces. Quarantine new rabbits for at least 14 days before introducing them to other rabbits to prevent potential virus transmission.

Avoiding exposure to wild rabbits and controlling insects and rodents in your pet’s environment are also key preventive measures. Since RHD can be spread by flies and fleas, consider using insect-proof screens and rodent traps. For comprehensive guidance on preventing RHD, visit an animal hospital in Virginia Beach, where experts can provide tailored advice to protect your pet rabbits.

[lifetein]

Multi-Epitopic Peptide Vaccines that Combat Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus

https://www.lifetein.com/blog/multi-epitopic-peptide-vaccines-that-combat-crimean-congo-hemorrhagic-fever-virus/ Tick infestations are a recurring roadblock of human development around the world, with estimated damages in the global economic landscape being as high as 30 billion USD. Specifically, India has long been susceptible to tick-borne diseases, due to multiple species invading the livestock. These regional parasites are major vectors for Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus (CCHFV), a disease with a devastating case fatality rate of 10–40%. While the main way of combatting the infestation of ticks and their carried disease has always been pesticides, often to an invasive degree of their own, scientists are working diligently for ways to produce a vaccine for this deadly and prevalent outbreak. One such method that has been explored is multi-epitopic peptide vaccines that combat Crimean–Congo hemorrhagic fever virus, specifically through the potential immune stimulatory responses they cause. Multi-epitopic peptides help boost immune system LifeTein provided the group with the two designed multi-epitopic peptides, VT1 and VT2. Using the two peptides, the group put them into two working vaccines in an effort to explore how effective they were at fighting back the ticks. With rabbits, they found strong immunity conferred by the vaccine, displayed by quick larval detachment, delayed tick feeding, low engorgement weights, and overall efficacy against both tick larvae and adults. The results show just how effective treatment with the vaccines are against ticks carrying CCHFV, and the compatibility with rabbits is a great starting point. In an ideal experiment, the group would have tested on cattle, since that is a much more affected group by these ticks. Regardless, the suitability and stability displayed warrants more attention be put into these multi-epitopic peptide vaccines. Their efficacy displayed against infestations as such is sure to save the global economy billions, as well as countless lives. Immunization in this route is surely more appealing than that of constant and overwhelming pesticides being put in place at every conceivable turn. LifeTein is excited to see where else peptide-based vaccines can be implemented and what other unique properties they can bring to the table. Nandi A, Manisha, Solanki V, Tiwari V, Sajjanar B, Sankar M, Saini M, Shrivastava S, Bhure SK, Ghosh S. Protective Efficacy of Multiple Epitope-Based Vaccine against Hyalomma anatolicum, Vector of Theileria annulata and Crimean–Congo Hemorrhagic Fever Virus. Vaccines. 2023; 11(4):881. https://doi.org/10.3390/vaccines11040881

[hrsrabbitcenter]

(Cheyenne, Wyoming) Meet Dax, a 2-and-a-half-year-old male rabbit who needs a new home. He was rescued after being given to a local raptor program as food at a nearby university after a breeder determined he wasn’t “show quality.”   He has a sassy but fun personality and does great with children. He loves to play! He enjoys his tunnel and dig box. In his current home, he’s used a little bit of chaos as it has a child and two dogs, but he does well. Dax loves to snuggle and lounge around the house. He’s litter box trained and neutered but is not vaccinated against Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV).   Please contact Meghan at meghanholford@gmail.com if you’re interested in adding Dax into your family! They are willing to transport him if within a reasonable distance. Contact Meghan for more information.   For information about RHDV2 and vaccination, visit rabbit.org/rhdv.

[thepipsqueakery]

As a case of RHDV2 was confirmed in Kentucky in December we are holding another public RHDV2 vaccine clinic this Sunday January 9, 2022 in Bloomington, IN. Sign-up and additional information here: https://form.jotform.com/213564720719054 (link in bio for you Instagram folks) What is RHDV2? Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease (RHD) is a fatal disease caused by a calicivirus that affects only rabbits. What are the signs and symptoms? Visual signs owners might see are swelling, bleeding in the eyes, lethargy, decreased appetite,difficulty breathing, or yellowing of the skin. Bleeding from the nose, anus, or vent are also signs of possible RHD infection in rabbits. The virus attacks rapidly, so most owners might only find dead rabbits that display bleeding from the nose, anus or vent. How is RHDV2 transmitted? The virus can be transmitted by contact with infected rabbits (live or deceased) and is present in all excretions and secretions from infected animals (USDA APHIS, 2019). It can be transmitted by indirect contact with exposed objects like feeders, water crocks, cages, carriers, etc. Other animals, including cats and dogs, can serve as the mechanical vector for transfer to rabbits or equipment. Humans can also transmit the virus on shoes and clothes if they have been exposed to the virus. Is there a cure? Once a rabbit is infected, there is no cure for RHDV2, but vaccines are available. Prevention via vaccine and biosecurity are the only ways to keep your rabbit safe. #rabbit #bunny #rescue #sanctuary https://www.instagram.com/p/CYT7xO8L3Uj/?utm_medium=tumblr

[revenantbird]

From Michelle Kelly in the Rabbit Hemoragic Disease News Network

We are hosting a very basic RHDV2 webinar, hoping to get the word out about the disease in the U.S. and to hopefully convince people on the fence to get their bunnies vaccinated. Feel free to share!

Free webinar covering some basic facts about Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus in the U.S. Sign up here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_VahtR8TfSBKQa772JiOnuA

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from the Desert Sun:

The culprit remains unknown, but she's got a good guess — rabbit hemorrhagic disease.

Caused by a deadly and highly contagious virus, the disease affects both wild and domestic populations of lagomorphs, which are a subset of species including hares, rabbits and pikas. Since March of last year, government labs have confirmed cases across the West, with the epicenter in the Southwest and Southern California.

Without any reasonable method of distributing a vaccine to wild animals, the disease is expected to continue spreading. The numbers of confirmed cases are still relatively low — in the dozens — but entire food chains could take a hit if staple species of prey like jackrabbits decline.

This virus is like "the rabbit version of Ebola," according to Hayley Lanier, assistant curator for mammals at the Sam Noble Museum in Oklahoma and co-chair of the International Union for Conservation of Nature's lagomorph specialist group.

"This is pretty serious," she said. "This is a disease that has completely decimated rabbit populations in Spain."

The current North American outbreak, the first the continent has seen in wild and not only domesticated rabbits, has spread mainly across the West since cases were reported in pet rabbits in March 2020 in New Mexico. Since then, the U.S. Department of Agriculture has confirmed cases in Texas, Colorado, Wyoming, Montana, Utah, Arizona, Nevada and California. Separately, cases were also confirmed in New York and Florida.

The illness is caused by rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus serotype 2, which persists for a long time in the environment and, according to Lanier, can withstand both dry as well as hot conditions. "Often, disease onset is rapid," according to literature from the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, and infected animals suffer internal bleeding and liver damage before dying.

"That has huge implications for not just rabbits but everything that eats rabbits," Lanier explained. "Rabbits are this very important segment of the food chain."

The virus appears to only harm certain species of lagomorphs, so it doesn't yet pose a danger directly to other wildlife or humans. But, if rabbits are no longer an abundant food supply, that would shift the balance of entire ecosystems.

Researchers are also concerned about the possibility that rabbit hemorrhagic disease could wipe out species that are already on the brink. In California, this means the riparian brush rabbit, which is the only species of rabbit that's listed as endangered under both the relevant state and federal acts.

[docmary]

Vaccine hesitancy, molecular mimicry, and blood clots (oh my!)

There were many mixed messages in the world of coronavirus last week. Just as it appears that Michigan is the lead state in the fourth wave of the virus, the US is about to hit a “vaccine wall” as demand drops for vaccinations even though the supply is greatly improved. In the first three months of the rollout for the Pfizer, Moderna, and the Johnson & Johnson/Jantzen (J&J) vaccines, getting shots into arms of the most vulnerable has required a full court press from public health departments and the healthcare establishment, as well as persistence on the part of those trying to wrangle an appointment. The results from state to state have been uneven.

Figure 1

So far 14 states have administered fewer than 75% of the doses distributed to them with Alabama having the lowest vaccination rate per capita. Twenty states have administered more than 80% of the doses distributed to them with the most vaccinations per capita in New Hampshire.[1]

Vaccine Hesitancy:

The good news for those who want to get vaccinated is that it is a whole lot easier to get an appointment now. That said, the goal of herd immunity is a long way off and with demand dropping for jabs, we may not get there. Vaccine hesitancy is an important reason for declining demand and that is a shifting picture.

In a study that was put out by the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF) in December, 52% of Black Americans said they would “wait and see” before signing up for the vaccine while only 20% said they wanted the shot as soon as possible. The share of Black people who were skeptical of the vaccines was higher than for White respondents (36%) and Latinx (43%).[2]

By March of this year, 55% of Black respondents to another KFF survey said they had been vaccinated or wanted the vaccine as soon as possible. Twenty-four percent were still holding back. Blacks have been one of the hardest hit demographics of COVID-19 and that has, no doubt, played a part in changing minds. Another possible reason for the turnaround in willingness to get vaccinated is because there has been a concerted outreach effort tapping trusted sources such as Barack Obama, sports stars, and other influencers such as Black ministers to address vaccine hesitancy among Black people.

The Urban Institute’s September 2020 Coronavirus Tracking Survey, a nationally representative survey of adults ages 18-64, asked people whether in the last 12 months they had ever felt a doctor, other health care provider, or their staff judged them unfairly or discriminated against them based on their race/ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, a disability, or a health condition and about the consequences of these experiences. This survey indicated that perceptions of discrimination and unfair judgement while seeking health care were higher among Black adults than among Hispanic and White adults in the previous 12 months (September 2019-September 2020).[3]

Figure 2

A “food desert” is described as an urban area that does not have a grocery store within one mile or a rural area that does not have one within ten miles. There is also a “pharmacy desert” that generally occurs in primarily Black neighborhoods in urban areas as well as in rural areas. People of color are less likely to have a family primary care provider and so access to information about the individual’s risks and benefits of getting vaccinated from a trusted source, much less getting an appointment for the vaccine itself, is often more challenging than it is for White people. My guess is that these experiences and the barriers to appropriate care contributed to the initial skepticism among people of color generally and Black people specifically in the initial rollout phase.

FIGURE 3

Meanwhile, Republicans and Evangelical Christians were the most likely groups to say they will not get vaccinated, according to the KFF survey.[4] I do not have an explanation for that. I also don’t know how wearing masks got politicized last year. If anyone has an explanation that doesn’t involve a gang of Democratic, cannibal pedophiles, I am really interested in hearing it.

Molecular mimicry and autoimmune disease:

There are science-based reasons that some are reluctant to get vaccinated. An issue that has been little discussed publicly is molecular mimicry. The theory is that some part of the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 and is replicated in our cells, is similar enough to our own tissues that the immune system starts attacking our own cells thinking that those cells are the virus. Thus, the vaccine could trigger an autoimmune disease like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, multiple sclerosis, or other autoimmune condition.

In one study looking for similar protein sequences between the SARS-CoV-2 virus with protein sequences in humans and other mammals, as well as other human coronaviruses, the number of shared protein sequences at two particular sites was quite high for humans, rats, and mice but miniscule or not at all with other human coronaviruses, cats, dogs, rabbits, chimpanzees, gorillas, or macaques.[5] Sadly, the investigators did not include bats, which I think of as flying rats, but that’s just me. It has been hypothesized that the original source of COVID-19 was from bats. Could the virus have molecular mimicry with bats? If so, what does that mean for the species?

These authors believe that much of the damage seen in the “cytokine storm” that causes the worst damage in COVID-19 may, in fact, be due to this molecular mimicry between the virus and, for example, lung tissue. It should also be noted that molecular mimicry from the whole SARS-CoV-2 virus is much more likely than it is from a small part of the virus (the spike protein). If the vaccine can trigger an autoimmune disease, so can the whole virus.

The presence and level of autoantibodies (AAbs) that attack our own cells, frequently detected in patients with COVID-19, are significantly associated with hospitalization and more severe prognosis. Clinically, these patients are more likely to have respiratory distress, acute cardiac injury, acute kidney injury, multi-organ dysfunction with such common complications as coagulopathy and thrombocytopathy (put a pin in this one as it is also at play with blood clots). [6]

Blood Clots and the J&J and AstraZeneca (AZ) vaccines:

Last week the J&J vaccine rollout was put on pause by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) because six women developed unusual blood clots after receiving this vaccination. This was six out of seven million shots given. Some saw this as an over-reaction by the FDA that would likely lead to more vaccine hesitancy. However, these blood clots are different from clots that occur from “the usual suspects” like oral contraceptives and smoking.

Figure 4

A normal number of platelets is between 150,000-450,000 per microliter of blood (there are 1,000 microliters in one milliliter). If you have less than 150,000 platelets per microliter, you have a deficiency called thrombocytopenia. In the clots associated with the viral vector vaccines (J&J in the US and AZ in Europe), the platelets tend to stick together in the veins of the brain, which causes a blockage known as a cerebral venous system thromboembolism (CVST). This creates back pressure of blood in the brain itself, causing damage in the same way a hemorrhagic stroke would. [7]

“Normal” clots are usually treated with a blood thinner called heparin. With vaccine-induced prothrombotic immune thrombocytopenia (VIPIT), there is a deficiency of platelets and so that treatment would only make things worse. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the FDA are getting the word out to doctors not to use heparin, they are also looking for ways of figuring out which people are more at risk for this extremely rare complication. Putting the vaccine on pause was clearly the ethical thing to do and this kind of transparency gives me greater confidence in the vaccine rollout.

As is the case with molecular mimicry, the danger of VIPIT happening if a person gets COVID-19 is much higher than it is from either the J&J or the AZ vaccine.

“…If the mechanism is the same, one can speculate that the high occurrence in COVID-19 vs. vaccination is because the whole virus is more thrombogenic [likely to cause clots] than the spike protein alone.” Paolo Madeddu, professor of experimental medicine at the University of Bristol[8]

Symptoms associated with VIPIT include headache, tiny red spots under the skin, blurred vision, fainting or loss of consciousness, impaired movement in parts of the body, or coma. With either of these vaccines these blood clots, so far, only occurs 4-20 days after vaccination. Scientists believe that symptoms before or after that window are likely due to another cause.

It is important to note that COVID-19 itself has been reported to lead to thrombocytopenia (low blood platelets) in up to 41% of positive patients, with the figure going up to 95% of those with severe disease.[9]

Cause for cautious optimism:

Two separate studies published in the New England Journal of Medicine on April 9 indicated that in the case of the AZ vaccine, used in Europe, VIPIT was due to rogue antibodies against platelet factor 4 (PF4). This complication is similar to heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) and is diagnosed and treated the same way. It can be diagnosed with a lab test called ELISA that is pre-treated with PF4. If there is a big immune response, that means the patient has VIPIT. To be clear, there are lots of things that can cause blood clots and health professionals want to know what the cause is because the appropriate treatment is dependent on what is causing the problem. VIPIT from the AZ vaccine is treated with the administration of intravenous immunoglobins (IVG) and anti-coagulants. The J&J vaccine was not used in either of these studies and so we do not yet know if the same is true for that vaccine, but both are the same type of (viral vector) vaccine and both use an adenovirus as the viral vector.[10]

If we can get the one-and-done J&J vaccine back in use safely, that would be especially helpful for vaccinating unsheltered people. It would also be much easier to use in rural areas because J&J can be stored in a regular refrigerator unlike the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines that must be kept frozen.

My take:

For those who choose not to get vaccinated, for whatever reason, hoping to ride the coronavirus out, you should know that even without a vaccine, the SARS epidemic that hit Asia in 2002 did eventually go away, or, more likely, mutated to a less lethal virus. It took four years, but it can happen. However, that is not what always happens. Case in point, smallpox, which was around since at least the fourth century until it was declared eradicated by the World Health Organization in 1980. I don’t think I know anyone who has had smallpox and I may not know anyone who knows anyone who has had smallpox. In that case, the vaccine worked as intended.

Maybe you may feel like you are strong and healthy and even if you got COVID-19, you are unlikely to get significantly sick. Consider the possibility that you could be asymptomatic but still spread the disease. There are just no options that are completely risk free. Choose wisely.

[1]Romeo, A. (4/15/2021). America is about to hit a “vaccine wall” as demand drops—with or without Johnson & Johnson, Yahoo News. [2]Bunn, C. (4/12/2021). Vaccine hesitancy among Black Americans has turned a corner. Here’s why.”, NBC News. [3]Gonzalez, D., Skopor, L., McDaniel, M., Kenney, G.M. (4/2021). Perceptions of discrimination and unfair judgement while seeking health care, findings from the September 11-28 Coronavirus Tracking Survey, Urban Institute Health Policy Center. Retrieved from: https://www.urban.org/sites/default/files/publication/103953/perceptions-of-discrimination-and-unfair-judgment-while-seeking-health-care_0.pdf [4] Hamel, L., Lopez, L., Kearney, A., Brodie, M.(3/30/2021) KFF COVID-19 monitor: March 2021. Retrieved from: https://www.kff.org/coronavirus-covid-19/poll-finding/kff-covid-19-vaccine-monitor-march-2021/ [5]Kanduc, D., Shoenfeld, Y. (9/18/2020). Molecular mimicry between SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein and mammalian proteomes: implications for the vaccine, Immunol. Res. doi: 10.1007/s12026-020-09152-6 [6]Macela, A, Kubelkovak, K. (3/22/2021). Why does SARS-Co-V-2 infection induce autoantibody production? Pathogens, 10(3). doi: 10.3390/pathogens10030380 [7]Taylor, A. (4/16/2021). Blood clot risks: comparing AstraZenica vaccine and the contraceptive pill, The Conversation. Retrieved from: https://theconversation.com/blood-clot-risks-comparing-the-astrazeneca-vaccine-and-the-contraceptive-pill-158652 [8]Russell, P. (4/15/2021). Vaccines carry far lower risk for rare blood clots than COVID, study shows, Medscape News UK [9] Op cit Taylor, A. (4/9/2021). [10] Grenacher, A., et. al. (4/9/2021). Thrombocytic thrombocytopenia after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination, NEJM. doi:10.1056/NEJMoa2104840Schulz,NH, et. al. (4/9/2021). Thrombocytic thrombocytopenia after ChAdOx1 nCoV-19 vaccination, NEJM. doi: 10/1056/NEJMoa2104882

[fantasmalforces]

Mythic Illnesses

// Bc I felt like expanding on the lore a bit after studying up on diseases-

Leporidae Hemorrhagic Syndrome - Originating from the Europe and Eastern Eurasia, it was spread to the Americas, Africa, and Australia during the Mythic War as part of a covert biological warfare tactic to severely break down the numbers of Leporidae mythics. It was, unfortunately, successful. The Rabbitfolk population is estimated to have fallen from about 1.6 billion to roughly 300,000 individuals.

The disease is caused by a virus that targets members of the leporidae family, including rabbits, hares, and pikas, but can be carried by any warm-blooded mammal which makes its infectious capabilities much more worrisome.

The disease incubates for about three days and the onset of symptoms is incredibly fast, usually killing within 24-48 hours after the first signs of infection.

This disease is colloquially known as Hopper’s Explosive Death or Bloodspurt due to the nature of is symptoms. It usually starts out with an alarmingly high fever and drowsiness as the virus targets the immune system and blood cells. It inhibits the function of hemoglobin and rapidly inhibits immune response, leading to anemia and hypoxemia. This leads to lack of focus, loss of senses, fainting and increased likelihood of trauma to internal organs-- especially the oxygen-starved tissue of the lungs, which then begin to fill with blood and fluid. Death occur due asphyxiation. Victims fall into a coma and die shortly after due to either internal bleeding or not getting enough air into their flooded lungs. The name comes from the way that the deceased often cough up a large spray of blood before comatose or have trails of blood from orifices upon death.

There is a vaccine available for this particular disease. Prevention is a focus of it. However, if contracted, it is critical to immediately seek attention for symptoms. If care is not given within the first 24 hours, death from the disease is nearly guaranteed.

Equestrian Distal Inflammatory Disease - The origin point of this disease is unknown. It’s thought to originate from Asia, and was spread across the world as trade began to expand on a global scale. This disease is caused by a fungus that targets equine (horse) and cervidae (deer) mythics. This disease is believed to have been a major cause in the decline of the unicorn, peagsus, and deerfolk populations during the war.

The disease is typically contracted from eating or drinking from contaminated sources, or breathing in the spores as they travel on air. The spores themselves have a tendency to cling to fur and fibrous surfaces, meaning contact from other mammals to equine and cervidae mythics is another vector for transmission.

Symptoms typically manifest within days of infection. It begins with a sense of exhaustion from doing minor tasks, weakness in the legs, loss of balance, and shortness of breath. The spores follow the circulatory system and are held in the legs by gravity, where hey begin to absorb fluid from the bloodstream to try and grow in the tissues. This leads to severe edema (collection of fluid in the legs.)

As the the victim is forced to stay off their feet, usually by laying on their back or side, the establish fungus generates new spores which follow the circulatory system and build up in the new points of gravity- the spine and typically abdomen and chest. This causes dangerous swelling round these areas, which can lead to intestinal bloating and blockage, severe pressure on the lungs which can lead to collapse (and eventual congestive heart failure), and paralysis of the spine. Death is a slow and agonizing process that can take weeks.

Anti-fungal and herbal medications exist to kill the fungus. However, timing is critical. If not done early on in the reveal of symptoms, the damage done to the body by the spores may become permanent.

R2-Variant Subcutaneous Mange - This particular disease is related to mammalian mange seen in common domestic dogs and cats. However, this variant exclusively targets layered-scale reptiles, such as dragons. Transmitted usually by avian cleaning birds or by bites from other infected reptiles, this bacterial disease is believed to have originated in Scandinavia.

The bacteria is contracted by open wounds to the skin at the base of the scales. At first, symptoms drive the affected to scratch at it, spreading it to other areas of the body. The bacteria causes an overloaded immune response, leading to more itching and severe inflammation that can cause the scales of the dragon to fall out completely. As the bacteria enters the blood stream, it can navigate its way into the lungs and meningeal tissues, causing a severe cough, headaches, and throbbing.

Gone without treatment, the mange can spread across the skin and causing unbearable itching and selling. The rise in blood pressure from the headaches and inflammation can cause severe bleeding from the scratching. Paired with the destruction of lung tissue leading to coughs that expel blood, dragons can eventually die from severe blood loss and shock from their wounds.

A vaccine is available for this disease and highly encouraged for all susceptible reptiles, as well as potential carriers.

Drop-Tine Disease - This auto-immune disease is believed to have originated in North America following the Mythic War due to severe bottlenecking by humans and a mutation of the Chronic Wasting Disease prion. It affects members of the cervidae family, including all deerfolk with antlers.

The disease is spread by consuming the prion via water, infected food, or by bodily fluid transmission. Symptoms may take between weeks and years to develop symptoms as the prion infects healthy protein-making structures within the body and causes more of itslf to be produced.

Symptoms commonly manifest in painful urination, vomiting, or painful cough with mucus. Following this, severe weight loss occurs due to lack of proper nutritional absorption and increased output of fluids due to the aforementioned symptoms leading to dehydration. Shed antlers will begin to grow back inverted; the base of the antler will curve downward and the tines will points towards the ground rather than the sky due to the prion disrupting the bone forming cells of the skeletal system. Loss of brain function and the rapid onset of cognitive decline leads to the Deerfolk becoming disoriented, confused, aggressive, withdrawn, unresponsive, or even fully brain-dead once enough time has passed. Death usually occurs due to starvation, elemental exposure, or dehydration.

There is currently no known cure or treatment for this disease. Annual tests are conducted on known hot-spots where the prion is likely to be found and deerfolk in these areas are advised to find nutrition and water from safe imports rather than local sources.

Lyco-Canid Dehydrative Disease - Affecting werewolf and all members of the Canidfolk family, including Foxfolk, Dogfolk, etc., this viral disease originated in South America and was created as part of the Anti-Mythic War effort. It has claimed more than 3.9 million lives since its conception the number of deaths remains at a steady 2,000 deaths per year.

This disease is caused by a virus commonly contracted via bite or contaminated water. It targets the GI tract and causes severe cramping, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, excessive urination, high fever, drooling, and excessive sweating within 48 hours of contraction. It is not uncommon for those experiencing high fever to become delusional and hallucinate. Additionally, as the virus continues with its course, it can cause spasm of reflective muscles. Eating and drinking can be difficult due to spasm of the throat and diaphragm making to ingestion of edible material being close to impossible.

Ultimately, the cause of death from the disease is dehydration (and sometimes starvation). Most infected patients need to be treated with a feeding tube, anti-fever medication, and fluids while they ride out he virus’ intense effects. Some patients comatose from the fever or have brain damage due to the temperature at which they run from the infection. Most infected survive the ordeal however, and move on from it with no lasting effects.

A vaccine for this disease has been developed and in a requirement for most jobs that take on canid mythics for work. It is recommended for those living in highly populated areas or who work in close quarters with others

Land-Lock Disease - This disease commonly affects Avian mythics related to birds. The disease originated in India and is caused by a bacteria that infects the tissues of the skin. It’s commonly contracted from biting insects and ticks that specifically target birds but can be contracted by ingesting infected flesh from other avians or reptiles.

The disease typically begins with a fever and sensation of discomfort or itching of certain places on the skin. As the victim scratches, the skin can become dry and break leading to secondary infection. The bacteria targets the immune system and over time, can cause the feathers of the Birdfolk to fall out. This can lead to inability to regulate temperature. Following this, the disease targets bone tissue and leads to rapid production of bone-building cells. This, in turn, thickens and weighs down the bone. Unable to fly, the birdfolk become “land-locked”, hence the name.

Death commonly occurs due to secondary infection from more directly lethal bacteria. However, more often, hypothermia leads to a slow death in Birdfolk that contract the disease and do no keep themselves warm or treat the bacteria. In rare cases, those who receive treatment too late never regrow the feathers they lost or remain with denser than normal bones.

This disease is commonly treated with antibiotics and immune boosters. However, in recent times this method has become less effective. Scientists are now looking into the use of bacteriophages to treat infected individuals.

Seabound Apnea - This strange disease is believed to have originated from the north. It has been linked to exposure to heavily metals and toxic materials in the water and it predominantly affects mammalian sea mythics, such as Selkies and Leviakin. However, it has been seen in mermaids, fishfolk, and other aquatic species and amphibians.

The disease is characterized by stomach aches and drowsiness due to altered tissues in the brain leading to a change in breathing patterns that conglomerate in hypoxemia. Affected creatures begin to feel tingling or numbness in their distal limbs and lose ability to coordinate their movements over time while becoming sleepier. When sleeping, they may forget to breathe or inhale large amounts of water, leading to a very sudden death

Survivors of the experience develop a fear of falling asleep and become very distressed and incapable of doing most everyday tasks that involve being around or in water for fear of drowning. Most end up becoming land-bound creatures that are discontent with their quality of life.

While research for the cause of this disease has been ruled out, sleep studies and cognitive behavioral therapy are available as treatments for this condition. Additionally, afllicted individuals are often given specialized sealed underwater oxygenation equipment to prevent drowsiness and drowning. A cure does not exist however. Not yet at least.

[bunnies-and-sunshine]

Amos and Naomi's first vet visit!

Amos and Naomi (and Mr. Giraffe) waiting for the vet to enter the exam room. Amos was remarkably calm and just played with the hay and towel in his carrier as we waited. Naomi was busy hyperventilating while staring into the distance and ended up with a wet nose and muzzle from being so upset. After about 10 minutes of noogies, giraffe kisses, and gentle words, she calmed down and started cleaning then flopped due to boredom. Clearly, I didn't bring enough entertainment with me!

Naomi was a very good girl for her exam and let them weigh her without much fuss.  She refuses to believe she weighs just over 4 pounds and wants a do-over.  She ate pellets and some lettuce before her appointment, so that's probably why.

Amos had a mini freak-out during his exam and is why everything is on the ground (they were worried he'd launch himself off of the exam table).  It took three of us to corral him onto the scale to get his weight.  He clocks in at a mighty 3 pounds, which is close to what Simon weighed full-grown.  Amos just looks small because we're comparing him to Naomi.

Seriously, push the button and weigh me again!

After everybun got their RHDV2 vaccine, we were told to hang out for about 30 minutes to make sure neither of them were allergic to anything in it. Amos took a bit of coaxing to come back out of his carrier to stretch his legs and let me get a good look at him while we waited. This is his new favorite spot to observe his surroundings (since I wouldn't let him crawl under the exam table with all the wires and other neat stuff under there).

What do you mean we have to come back in 21 days for another shot?!

Yeah, the bunnies were not thrilled to learn that it's a 2-part vaccine.  I'm pretty sure Mr. Giraffe, Esq. will be sending me a strongly worded letter on behalf of his clients.

Naomi is not a fan of car rides and ended up with a wet muzzle when we got home.  At least she calmed down quickly and immediately ate the romaine leaf I gave as a peace offering.  We're going to have to get her used to traveling so she knows that it won't always end in a vet visit.  I also ordered them larger travel cages in case that was adding to her travel stress.

Amos and Naomi are doing well and I'll be keeping close watch on them for the next couple days.  Their vet mentioned that reactions to vaccines are pretty rare in rabbits, so that's good.

One down, one to go! 💉

[iowamedia]

Rabbit owners should consider vaccines for newly detected virus, state says

Rabbit owners should consider vaccines for newly detected virus, state says

Some rabbits are raised in Iowa to show at county and state fairs. (Photo by Jared Strong/Iowa Capital Dispatch) A virus that is believed to kill at least half of the rabbits it infects was recently detected in indoor, pet rabbits in Story County, according to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. A new variant of rabbit hemorrhagic disease was first identified in the United…

[thegnmsolution]

Deadly rabbit disease found in Ontario for the 1st time

Deadly rabbit disease found in Ontario for the 1st time Social Sharing * Facebook * Twitter * Email * Reddit * LinkedIn Rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (RHDV-2) found in 2 Lambton County rabbits that died CBC News · Posted: Jun 27, 2022 4:00 AM ET | Last Updated: June 27 Vet taking new measures to protect rabbits Two pet rabbits infected with a highly contagious virus that's newly detected in Ontario have died, causing concern among veterinarians and pet owners. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) said it's the first time rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHDV-2) has been detected in Ontario. It previously was found in B.C. and Alberta. The virus is not known to cause disease in humans, according to both the United States Department of Agriculture  and the CFIA. The rabbits in the Ontario case were from the same household and previously healthy, according to Dr. Jamie McGill Worsley, a veterinarian in Forest in Lambton County. The rabbits quickly died. "This was devastating for a pet owner with no warning and initially no understanding," she said, "As we did testing, we started to become more suspicious that maybe this  was the case." * Pet rabbits in Vancouver apartment building died of lethal disease: ministry * 'Like a flash fire:' Rabbit owners warned about outbreak of deadly disease in Alberta Samples were sent to a lab. Earlier this month, the CFIA confirmed it was RHDV-2. The source of the infection isn't known, the agency said. "Immediately following this, the CFIA placed a quarantine on the site," the agency said in a statement. "An investigation has been completed and no high-risk contacts have been identified that could result in spread of the disease from this premise. The CFIA is collaborating with the province and continues to monitor the situation." The CFIA's website says the virus is found in most**European countries, Australia, New Zealand, Cuba and some parts of Asia and Africa, and there have been occasional outbreaks in the U.S. and Canada, in 2011, 2016 and 2018. What is RHDV-2 According to the CFIA, the disease is highly contagious in wild and domestic rabbits. The virus doesn't affect other species. People can pick up the virus on their shoes — or even on their vehicle's tires — through the feces of an infected rabbit, said McGill Worsley. That's one of the reasons there's such concern, she said. "It is very resilient in the environment. It's very easy to spread around with microscopic amounts. And then, of course, the potential outcome of this virus, its impact on the rabbits, whether they're wild or pet rabbits, is quite devastating," said McGill Worsley, who has strengthened disinfection protocols at her clinic because of RHDV-2. A veterinarian holds a fluffy white rabbit. Dr. Jamie McGill Worsley of Forest Veterinary Clinic in Forest, Ont., shown with a pet rabbit at her clinic. McGill Worsley has strengthened disinfection protocols at her clinic because of RHDV-2. (Submitted by Jamie McGill Worsley ) The CFIA said infected rabbits usually show symptoms within one to five days. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite and neurological symptoms such as difficulty walking. "Death is common after a short period of illness. Death may also occur suddenly without signs," the CFIA says in a fact sheet on its website. Hazel Gabe of Ottawa is part of a Facebook group for rabbit owners where news of the virus has generated concern. "People are really scared. People are very scared and nervous," she said. But for some, there's a bit of relief, she said. "Now that there's been some cases in Ontario, even though we hate that some rabbits died and somebody probably lost their pet, but this means that maybe we will finally have access to the vaccine, because we've been asking for this for a while."  While other countries have vaccines that protect rabbits against the virus, they're not readily available in Canada. Hazel Gabe, shown with her pet rabbit, wants to see a vaccine against rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus become more widely available. (Sonya Varma/CBC) In B.C., where there have been outbreaks, the government waited until there were a certain number of cases before offering an organized vaccine program . McGill Worsley suspects it will be the same case in Ontario. But at this point, clinics have to request a special permit to import the vaccine from Spain or France, she said. "It's a bit of a process. I've worked part way through it myself ... that way we can start to be able to protect rabbits once we have permission from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to bring those vaccines here." www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/rabbit-hemorrhagic-disease-lambton-county-1.6500548

Read the full article

[reportwire]

New Vaccine Could Save Rabbits From Deadly Hemorrhagic Disease | Smart News

New Vaccine Could Save Rabbits From Deadly Hemorrhagic Disease | Smart News

Researchers are most concerned with the disease affecting endangered species like these riparian bush rabbits. Pacific Southwest Region USFWS via Wikimedia Commons under Public Domain Veterinarians are racing to save domestic and wild rabbits from a devastating virus. The virus, called RHDV2, is a form of hepatitis that causes rabbit hemorrhagic disease. Across North America, RHDV2 is…

[hrsrabbitcenter]

(SF Bay Area) This adorable, young trio is looking for a home of their very own – could it be with you?

Brianna (female, speckled), Bianca (female, chocolate brown), and Brayden (male, white) are bonded and need to be adopted together. It’s estimated they’re all around 7-months-old. All rabbits are spayed/neutered and vaccinated against Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus Type-2 (RHDV2).

Brianna, Bianca, and Brayden are good with their litter box and love to come out of their pen and explore. There’s so much to see and chin! Brayden is the more outgoing of the three. Brianna and Bianca are still getting used to people and being house rabbits, but with lots of love and attention (and treats!), they’re sure to blossom. All of the bunnies like being pet. Brayden in particular likes to cuddle, and he even gives kisses in appreciation! The trio also loves to chew cardboard boxes and play and chew grass toys. They love their hay and greens too!

If you can give these special bunnies a home, email berehug@yahoo.com.

For more information about RHDV, visit rabbit.org/rhdv. An annual vaccine is required in order to maintain protection against the virus.

[thepipsqueakery]

RHDV2 has been confirmed in Kentucky. Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease is an incredibly deadly and contagious virus that infects rabbits. If your rabbit has not already been vaccinated we strongly recommend reaching out to your local veterinarian to inquire about getting this vaccine done. It won't be long until we are seeing cases in Indiana too. #rabbit #rhdv2 #vaccine #virus https://www.instagram.com/p/CXzOh17vYcN/?utm_medium=tumblr