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A highly infectious disease has been found in Utah's wild rabbit population again

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease resurfaces in Utah’s wild rabbit populations, raising health and ecological concerns

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Answered

What is rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD)?

Rabbit hemorrhagic disease is a highly contagious viral illness affecting rabbits and hares, often resulting in severe internal bleeding and high mortality rates. It does not typically infect humans or other animals but can devastate wild rabbit populations and impact ecosystems that rely on them.

Where has the disease been confirmed in Utah?

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources has confirmed rabbit hemorrhagic disease in Summit and Tooele counties as of June 23, 2026.

Is there a risk to humans or pets from this disease?

According to current coverage, rabbit hemorrhagic disease primarily affects rabbits and hares. There is no evidence it poses a direct risk to humans or domestic pets, though public health agencies may provide further guidance as the situation develops.

Where it stands

A highly infectious disease, identified as rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD), has been detected in wild rabbit populations in Summit and Tooele counties, Utah. The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources confirmed the presence of the virus, marking its reappearance in the state’s wildlife.

The disease is known for its high fatality rate among rabbits and hares, posing potential risks to local ecosystems and livestock interactions. Coverage from ABC4 Utah, KSL News, and The Salt Lake Tribune emphasizes the urgency of monitoring the disease’s spread, particularly as it could impact both wildlife and agricultural areas.

What to watch next includes the scope of the outbreak—whether it spreads beyond the confirmed counties—and any updates from wildlife agencies on mitigation efforts. Public health officials may also address whether the disease poses a risk to domestic pets or humans, though current reports focus on wild rabbit populations.

Synthesized by headlinez.news from the headlines below under a strict no-invention contract. ✓ fact-checked: unsupported claims removed (75% supported) Updated 46d ago.

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Topics

rabbit hemorrhagic disease Utah wildlife Summit County Tooele County ecological health Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

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