“Zombie rabbits” spotted in colorado: Scientists explain the virus
Thekabarnews.com—People in Fort Collins, Colorado, have seen wild rabbits with strange growths on their faces that look like horns or tentacles. People on social media quickly noticed the animals and...
Thekabarnews.com—People in Fort Collins, Colorado, have seen wild rabbits with strange growths on their faces that look like horns or tentacles. People on social media quickly noticed the animals and called them “zombie rabbits” because they looked so strange and sometimes scary.
Wildlife experts say that the Shope papilloma virus is to blame for the problem. This virus causes rabbits’ skin to grow in ways that look like tumors. Even though the rabbits may look scary, experts say that the virus is not harmful to people or pets.
The Shope papilloma virus makes tissues grow in strange ways, which can make them harden into shapes that look like horns. Sometimes the growths look dark and uneven, which makes the animals’ faces look strange. Sick rabbits usually stay outside, but if they can’t eat or see, they may come in.
Richard Shope was the first scientist to find the virus in the 1930s. His research helped scientists understand better how viruses can cause tumors to grow. Subsequently, the findings shaped more extensive research on viral cancers. They also contributed to the development of vaccines that remain in use today, including the HPV vaccine.
Wildlife experts say that outbreaks of the Shope papilloma virus occur naturally in rabbit populations every now and then. The recent sightings in Fort Collins do not mean that there is a public health emergency. But as a general rule of safety, they tell people not to touch wild animals directly.
If you see a strange rabbit, experts say you should not try to catch or handle it. Those who spot the virus should notify local wildlife officials, enabling them to monitor its spread.
Scientists say that the way these rabbits look may be scary, but the disease that affects wildlife is not new or mysterious.
With infected rabbits back in the news, people are more interested in the virus and its scientific implications. Researchers say that studying viruses in animals helps medicine move forward and helps us learn more about how diseases work in both animals and people.
No Comment! Be the first one.