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Deadly Rabbit Disease Detected in Lake of the Woods County

By Alex Carmenaty Sep 28, 2026 | 8:21 AM

(Learfield) – Minnesota animal health officials are warning rabbit owners after a highly contagious and deadly disease struck two colonies in Lake of the Woods County. Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus type 2 was confirmed in one colony after about 15 percent of its rabbits suddenly died. A second colony less than a mile away lost about half its rabbits and is considered a presumed case. Officials say RHDV2 can kill up to 90 percent of infected rabbits. Owners are encouraged to consider vaccination and take precautions to prevent the virus from spreading. The disease is not known to affect people.

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