Myxomatosis

Myxomatosis, sometimes shortened as myxo, is a disease caused by the mxyoma virus, a strain of Leporipoxvirus, that affects rabbits. It is a usually fatal disease in domestic and wild old-world rabbits and more likely when mosquitos are numerous such as the summer and fall. The virus is spread primarily through insect bites (mosquitoes, flies, fur mites, fleas), but it can also be transmitted by mechanical factors such as nonbiting insecting, thorns, bedding, and food.

History
The mxyoma virus was originally intentionally introduced into Australia and Europe in an effort to control wild rabbit populations; resistance has since developed. Several strains of mxyoma viruses exist.

Myxomatosis can be found in Europe, South America, North America, and Australia. In the United States, the disease is seen primarily in California as an extremely virulent strain with mortality rates exceeding 99%.

Symptoms
For the California strain of myxo in domestic rabbits, incubation period is usually 1 to 3 days. It can attack domestic rabbits in peracute (extremely active and violent), acute, and chronic forms.

Treatment and prevention
Unfortunately, most treatment is non-effective, and supportive care is generally unsuccessful.

To prevent myxo, your best options are to do the following:
 * Control its vectors - add screening to keep out insects; use flea control; keep your rabbits indoors.
 * Disinfect - 10% bleach, 10% NaOH, 1% to 1.4% formalin
 * Quarantine new rabbits and do not house wild rabbits with domestic pet rabbits.
 * Vaccinate your rabbits if it is available in your country. It can provide temporary protection. Unfortunately the vaccination is not available in Australia or the United States.