Uintah County now has confirmed cases of RHDV-2, Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease, and here is what hunters need to know. “Unfortunately, it is difficult — if not impossible — to control the disease once it’s established in the wild,” shares the Division of Wildlife Resources. “Therefore, please do everything you can to help prevent spreading the disease. Here’s some guidance for rabbit hunters, who are the segment of the population most likely to come into contact with diseased rabbits: Do not harvest rabbits that appear sick or lethargic. Wear rubber or disposable latex gloves while handling and cleaning harvested game. Decontaminate boots and other field gear with a 10% bleach solution. When cleaning harvested game, bag any remains and dispose of them by placing them in the trash. (Before doing so, check local ordinances concerning the disposal of game carcasses.) Do not dispose of remains where other rabbits or scavengers may have access to them. When you are finished processing your harvested game, wash your hands thoroughly with soap or disinfectant, and disinfect all knives, equipment and surfaces that came in contact with the game. If later contact with live rabbits is possible, hunters should shower and change clothing immediately after cleaning harvested game. Do not eat, drink or smoke while handling harvested animals. All harvested game should be thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. If you notice any discoloration or hemorrhages on internal organs after harvesting the rabbit, or if you see anything that may appear abnormal or a cause for concern, please contact your local DWR office.
