Rabbits in Colorado with tentacle-like growths ignited a disturbed reaction online and perhaps raised arbovirus-awareness across the nation. But what is an arbovirus?

Cottontail rabbits with spikey growths on their heads were reported by residents in Fort Collins, Colorado, on Aug. 13, sparking concern and interest in what was confirmed as the cottontail rabbit papillomavirus .

Though the growths appear meanacing, the virus is not deadly to rabbits or hares (unless a growth obstructs their ability to eat), according to ScienceDirect. The virus is transmitted via biting insects such as fleas, ticks or mosquitoes.

The virus has never been detected in Michigan, said Julie Melotti, a wildlife pathologist at Michigan's Department of Natural Resources. A similar virus, Shope Fibroma ,

See Full Page