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November 17, 1997
(Forest Resources and Agrifoods)


Kevin Aylward, minister responsible for wildlife and agriculture, would like to caution the public to practice proper hygiene when cleaning and handling their snared rabbits this season. "I understand from animal health officials that a number of parasites and disease have been confirmed this fall in the snowshoe hare population of the Avalon Peninsula," said the minister. "We felt that the public should be reminded to examine their catch with due caution to avoid any possibility of ill effects from eating or handling an animal carrying any disease."

There are several naturally occurring diseases which are considered to be normal within the snowshoe hare population, and they become more apparent during periods when there are high population numbers, as is the case this year. During such periods there would be more chances for infected hares to spread the disease to others.

The most common diagnosis is of tapeworm cysts found on the internal organs. While they do not cause a lot of problems for the animal, the sight of a hare with numerous cysts in its body is not very appetizing. The cysts are usually the size of a pea, and may number from 20-50 in total. There is no known human health risk connected with this disease, but hunters are advised not to feed contaminated carcasses (unless cooked) to their dogs so as not to infect these animals, who are also carriers, and also to help minimize spread back into the environment.

A second disease that has been seen this fall is a bacterial disease of the liver called yersiniosis. The liver of infected animals is usually covered with many small, sand-like, white spots. These may also be seen on other organs such as the spleen. Though not commonly reported in people, this disease can cause diarrhea in humans. Proper hygiene measures such as wearing gloves while cleaning the hare, washing hands after handling, and throwing out anything that doesn't look good should assure that no health problems occur. As with the tapeworm cysts, it is not advisable to feed contaminated carcasses to dogs or other animals (unless thoroughly cooked).

Individuals who have questions on these or other diseases of wild animals can contact their local wildlife office or the Regional Veterinarian: Dr. Mark O'Donoghue, Wildlife Biologist (709) 729-4690, or Dr. Hugh Whitney, Director, Animal Health Division, (709) 729-6879.

Contact: Anna Buffinga, Director of Communications, (709) 729-3217.

1997 11 17 10:35 a.m.

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