The recent outbreak of FMD (foot and mouth disease) in mainland cattle has been closely linked to Cornwall, with two cases confirmed. 235 cases now exist in the UK, one in NI and one in France. In the late 60s, passengers on the Scillonian had to step on to a pad of disinfectant, which would kill the disease bacteria should it be on a person’s shoe. The disinfectant pads have been laid down at the local airport, to prevent the disease bacteria enetering the islands. The same precautions failed in Cornwall. It is hoped, however, that the spread of the disease will be impeaded because there is less chance of it spreading by air and car-travel, unlike in mainland England. The MAFF (Minsitry of Argiculture, Fisheries and Food) suspended the movement of livestock, but now movement of animals is being allowed under controlled conditions. Locals are keen to stress that Scilly is not effected, and that visitors to the islands can do everything they would want to in any countryside. The only restriiction is that it is advised to keep your dogs on leads.
