The disease is almost always fatal. Young rabbits are the most susceptible. They become listless, lose their appetite, and develop a vever. The head may swell, especially the nose, lips, and ears. The anus and scrotum may become very red and inflamed.
Most rabbits die within one or two weeks of first showing signs of the disease.
Because of the rabbit's status as a noxious pest in Australia, vaccination of domestic rabbits against this disease is illegal. To reduce the risk of infection, pet rabbits should be kept indoors or housed in mosquito proof enclosures. It was first established on the shores of Westernport Bay, Vic., in 1862 and further colonies were set up on Phillip Island, Vic. From here, it was distributed to many other parts of Australia where it thrived on native grasslands and open woodlands, rapidly expanding its range. It is now widespread in grasslands, woodlands, agricultural and some urban lands in NSW, Vic., SA, and south eastern Qld.