August 2025 Update

September 1st, 2025

RHDV testing

Over August, we received submissions from ACT, NSW, VIC and TAS. Calicivirus was detected in NSW and VIC.

Domestic rabbit owners are encouraged to remain vigilant with their biosecurity to ensure the safety of the animals, especially as we’re approaching spring and will expect insect activity to increase:

  • Decontaminate hands, shoes and clothing before handling rabbits
  • Keep your pet rabbit indoors
  • Regularly decontaminate equipment and materials including cages, hutches, bowls etc, with either 10% bleach, 10% sodium hydroxide, or a parvocidal disinfectant such as F10SC or Virkon
  • Control insects (especially flies) as much as possible both indoors and outdoors
  • Rabbit-proof your backyard to prevent access by wild rabbits
  • Limit contact between and handling of unfamiliar pet rabbits

Additionally, pet rabbits should be vaccinated with Filavac® (AVA). Please note that it will take a few weeks for rabbits to build up their immunity following vaccination.

If you suspect a rabbit may have died of calicivirus, you can request a free test kit by sending an email to rabbitcalicivirus@csiro.au with your postal address.

Location of submitted cases for calicivirus testing in August 2025