Disease outbreaks

Responsible behaviour by the public

If there is an outbreak of a contagious notifiable disease (such as foot and mouth disease, or avian flu) more detailed advice will be provided by the Scottish Government.  Following any official signs and using disinfectant footpads or baths where they are provided can help to minimise the spread of the disease.

Responsible behaviour by land managers

If there is an outbreak of a contagious notifiable disease (such as foot and mouth disease, or avian flu) more detailed advice will be provided by the Scottish Government.  Following any official signs and using disinfectant footpads or baths where they are provided can help to minimise the spread of the disease.

Public access may be closed in the 10km restriction zone around any outbreak, using official signage.   There is no general reason to close access to land  beyond that area, and every effort will be made to keep recreational access to the wider countryside open.

Only Scottish ministers can close access to land under access laws, using the official signs.  People visiting areas outside the closed zone may be asked, through the official signage, to follow further specific biosecurity advice.

Contingency plan guidance on public access in the event of a foot and mouth disease outbreak