Myxomatosis is a major disease of the rabbit for which there is no cure. Its death rate is high. There is a vaccine to protect domestic rabbits. 

Definition

Myxomatosis is a disease of the rabbit caused by the myxoma virus (poxviridae family). 

This disease is characterized by tumors on the face and limbs of rabbits. It is mainly transmitted by mosquito or flea bite. However, the virus can be transmitted through contact with infected animals or contaminated objects. 

Myxomatosis cannot be transmitted to other animals or to humans. 

It is part of the list of diseases notifiable by the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE).

Causes 

The myxomatosis virus originates from South America where it infects wild rabbits. This virus was introduced voluntarily into France in 1952 (by a doctor to drive rabbits off his property) from where it spread to Europe. Between 1952 and 1955, 90 to 98% of wild rabbits died of myxomatosis in France. 

The myxomatosis virus was also deliberately introduced into Australia in 1950 to control the proliferation of rabbits, a non-native species.

Diagnostic 

The diagnosis of myxomatosis is made on observation of clinical signs. A serological test can be performed. 

The people concerned 

Myxomatosis affects wild and domestic rabbits. Myxomatosis remains one of the main causes of mortality in wild rabbits.

Risk factors

Biting insects (fleas, ticks, mosquitoes) are especially present during summer and fall. The majority of myxomatosis cases therefore develop from July to September. 

Skin nodules and edemas …

Myxomatosis is usually characterized by numerous large myxomas (skin tumors) and edema (swelling) of the genitals and head. They are often accompanied by lesions in the ears. 

Then acute conjunctivitis and bacterial infections 

If the rabbit did not die during the first stage of myxomatosis, acute conjunctivitis sometimes resulted in blindness. The rabbit becomes listless, has a fever and loses his appetite. The immune system weakens and secondary opportunistic infections appear, especially pneumonia. 

Death occurs within two weeks, sometimes within 48 hours in weak rabbits or those affected by virulent strains. Some rabbits survive but they often have sequelae. 

There is no treatment for myxomatosis. The symptoms can be treated (conjunctivitis, infected nodules, infection of the lungs, etc.). Supportive care can be instituted: rehydration, force-feeding, relaunching of transit, etc.

Myxomatosis: natural solutions 

Myxolisin, a homeopathic oral solution, would give good results. This treatment is used by some rabbit breeders. 

In prevention of myxomatosis, it is recommended to vaccinate your pet rabbits. The first injection of the myxomatosis vaccine is given at the age of 6 weeks. A booster injection takes place a month later. Then, a booster injection should be given once a year (vaccine against myxomatosis and hemorrhagic disease. The vaccine against myxomatosis does not always prevent the rabbit from having myxomatosis but it decreases the severity of symptoms and mortality. .