Viral Haemorrhagic Disease This is a devastating disease which causes a blood clotting problem and usually the first sign of this disease is the sudden death of a rabbit. VHD is invariably fatal. VHD is spread by direct contact between rabbits (both wild and domesticated) and also via indirect contact. Possible sources of indirect contact are people, clothing, contaminated hutches and bedding, as well as insects such as fleas. This can be prevented. VHD vaccination can be given from eight weeks onwards, but is usually given at 10-12 weeks. Boosters are given annually for VHD.