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European brown hare syndrome in England
The Veterinary Record
|June 25, 1994
Summary
Electron microscopy detected European brown hare syndrome (EBHS) virus in brown hare livers. This calicivirus was identified in hares dating back to 1982, predating similar rabbit viruses.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Wildlife Pathology
Background:
- European brown hare syndrome (EBHS) is a significant disease affecting Lepus europaeus.
- Caliciviruses are known causative agents of diseases in lagomorphs and leporids.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and historical occurrence of EBHS virus in brown hares in England.
- To compare EBHS with the related rabbit hemorrhagic disease virus (VHDV).
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine liver samples from 50 brown hares.
- Clinical histories and post-mortem findings were reviewed.
- Retrospective analysis of disease cases from 1976-1990 was conducted.
Main Results:
- EBHS virus was detected in 23 out of 50 brown hare livers.
- The virus was identified in samples from 1982 and 1985, with the earliest detection in 1982.
- Findings suggest EBHS has occurred sporadically in England since at least 1976.
Conclusions:
- The study confirms the presence of EBHS virus in England and establishes an earlier timeline for its occurrence.
- EBHS virus predates the emergence of VHDV in China.
- Further epidemiological studies are warranted to understand the disease's emergence and spread.