13.08.2025 15:24
Images of rabbits taking on a frightening appearance have caused widespread panic in the United States. Officials, who provided explanations regarding the rabbits that have developed tumors and black tentacles due to the CRPV virus, denied claims of a zombie outbreak and warned, "Do not touch these animals under any circumstances."
Dark, tentacle-like growths on the faces of wild rabbits in the U.S. have caused panic across the country. It has been reported that the condition caused by the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus (CRPV) spreads not through direct contact among rabbits, but via mosquitoes and ticks.
BLACK STRIPES FORMING AROUND THE EYES
It is emphasized that the virus, which starts with small red swellings on the skin of rabbits and turns into wart-like masses, creates black stripes around the mouth, cheeks, and eyes in severe cases.
WARNINGS FROM AUTHORITIES WERE NOT DELAYED
Images coming especially from Colorado show that tumors and black tentacles have formed on the heads of rabbits, and authorities did not delay in issuing warnings regarding the situation.
"CONTACT SHOULD BE AVOIDED"
Authorities, denying claims that a zombie outbreak has begun, warned that all contact with infected rabbits should be avoided, while it was noted that veterinarians can surgically remove tumors in pets before they become malignant.
WHAT IS THE CRPV VIRUS?
CRPV is commonly known as "cottontail rabbit papillomavirus." This virus can cause papillomas (wart infections) and sometimes tumor-like formations in rabbits.
This virus leads to horn-like keratinized tumors on the skin of rabbits. Some tumors can metastasize or grow large enough to make it difficult for the rabbit to feed.
In scientific research, it is used as a model organism to understand cancer development and papillomavirus mechanisms; it is particularly noted for its oncogenic proteins such as E6 and E7.