The growths are not harmful to humans or pets, but it's recommended to keep a safe distance and avoid handling infected rabbits.

According to the Bureau of Land Management Utah, bears have been sighted in Grandstaff Canyon and along the Colorado River, in the Dewey Bridge to Hittle Bottom area. So if you are hiking or boating around Moab, officials are asking you to take extra precautions.

The disease in rabbits also contributed to scientists’ knowledge about the connection between viruses and cancer, such as the human papillomavirus that causes cervical cancer. The virus in rabbits was named after Dr.