In Colorado, rabbits with viruses that scare people have appeared

• Rabbits in Colorado have been found with viral infections through a virus.
• The virus is not a threat to humans or domestic animals.
• The unusual appearance of the rabbits has caused a burst of reactions on social media.

In Fort Collins, Colorado, residents noticed a group of rabbits that look unusual due to viral infections on their heads. These rabbits are infected with the Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus (RHDV), which affects wild rabbits, similar to how it affects domestic animals. The virus is not a threat to humans or domestic animals.

Transmission of the virus occurs through bites from insects, such as fleas and ticks, in warm weather. Although the unusual appearance of the rabbits has caused concern, experts from Colorado Parks and Wildlife emphasize that this is not new and does not pose a threat to the health of animals.

The Rabbit Hemorrhagic Disease Virus, discovered in the 1930s, has a historical connection to the myth of the jackalope—a mythical creature that resembles a rabbit with antlers. Many social media users have started using the terms "Frankenstein rabbits" and "zombie rabbits" to describe these animals.

Experts recommend avoiding contact with such rabbits, as most of them can autonomously become infected with the virus, and populations increase over time.

Tags: USA