Foot and Mouth Disease

Monday, August 6 2007

Scottish Borders Council staff have been monitoring the situation in Surrey, following the announcement of a foot and mouth outbreak on Friday.

The outbreak is confined to a single farm, but the immediate ban on the movement all susceptible animals is affecting farms and other rural businesses in the Scottish Borders.

However, the key message throughout Scotland is that the countryside remains fully open to responsible visitors.

Scottish Borders Council Trading Standards Officers and Lothian and Borders Police are responsible for enforcing that ban on the movement of susceptible animals and will respond to any information received. They can be contacted on 01896 823922

Richard Mackie of Trading Standards explained: “The UK ban on the movement of cattle, sheep, goats and pigs is a key step in controlling the spread of foot and mouth disease. While we appreciate the impact that this has on local businesses, it is essential that they comply fully. We will be very active during the time the ban is in place and will follow up on any reports we receive.”

Ian Hogarth, the Council’s Emergency Planning Officer, added: “The level of co-operation between the key agencies in Scottish Borders is very good and the Council will do anything it can to support the Animal Health Agency who take the lead in relation to diseases of animals. As is normal practice, we will be meeting colleagues from the Animal Health Agency and other agencies today to ensure a co-ordinated response to any situation that may develop. Further meetings will be held as required.”

When in the countryside, recreational users should follow these precautions:

avoid all contact with farm animals and avoid livestock areas such as feeding stations
avoid parking in fields where there are farm animals
respect all official signage
never feed animals or leave food and/or packaging around where animals can eat it
ensure gates are left as they are found
use disinfectant footpads or baths where provided
take all litter away
keep dogs under close control at all times.

For further information about the current outbreak, contact the national helpline on 0845 155 3366 or visit www.scotland.gov.uk

Reference: News-20606, Contact the Author