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RHDV-2 vaccine authorised in the EU
rabbits
The VMD says vets should use their clinical judgement on a case by case basis to decide the most suitable vaccination protocol.
Marketing authorisation issued for ERAVAC

The European Medicines Agency (EMA) has issued a marketing authorisation for the vaccine ERAVAC, to reduce mortality caused by rabbit haemorrhagic disease virus type 2 (RHDV-2).

Recent analysis by the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) revealed RHDV-2 has been present in Great Britain since 2010 and was found across England, Scotland and Wales. The findings prompted some concern due to the lack of a vaccine.

ERAVAC is produced by Laboratorios Hipra, S.A. and is indicated for the active immunisation of fattening rabbits from the age of 30 days. The marketing authorisation is valid throughout the European Union.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate (VMD) says it will accept applications to import unauthorised medicines into the UK to treat RHDV-2, if ERAVAC is not available or suitable.

Vaccines against RHDV-2 - such as Filavac VHD K C+V (France) and Novarvipal (Spain) - are authorised in other EU countries. These have previously been imported by UK veterinary surgeons under the Special Import Scheme.

There is no available information on the safety and efficacy of RHDV-2 vaccines for pet rabbits, including when they are used alongside other vaccines (such as classical RHDV or myxomatosis vaccines).

The VMD says vets should use their clinical judgement on a case by case basis to decide the most suitable vaccination protocol. Vets are advised to contact the vaccine manufacturer directly for further information.

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Practices urged to audit neutering data

News Story 1
 RCVS Knowledge has called on vet practices to audit their post-operative neutering outcomes.

It follows the release of the 2024 NASAN benchmarking report, which collates data from neutering procedures performed on dogs, cats and rabbits.

The benchmarking report enables practices in the UK and Ireland to compare their post-operative outcomes to the national average. This includes the rate of patients lost to follow-up, which in 2024 increased to 23 per cent.

Anyone from the practice can submit the data using a free template. The deadline for next report is February 2026.

Visit the RCVS Knowledge website to complete an audit. 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.