Recently, an outbreak of foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) was reported in cattle in Indonesia. FMD is a highly contagious viral disease of animals and is one of the most serious livestock diseases. It is easily spread through contaminated feed and water, animal transport vehicles and equipment, clothing and footwear. An outbreak of FMD could devastate Australia’s livestock industries.

Given Murdoch University has various cloven-hoofed animals (such as cattle, sheep and pigs) at different locations – and the increased travel between Indonesia and Australia – new protocols are being introduced to prevent the risk of transmission of the virus. Effective immediately:

• Any person who has travelled to Indonesia may not enter Murdoch University’s South Street, Whitby Falls, Mardella or Mundijong farms until seven days after their return.
• Only essential personnel will be permitted to enter Murdoch University’s South Street, Whitby Falls or Mardella farms. Essential personnel include:
• lecturers
• academics required on the properties for relevant University requirements
• researchers required on the properties for University requirements
• students required on the properties, as part of their studies
• relevant security personnel (only as required)
• relevant Animal Hospital personnel (only as required)
• relevant farms personnel.

If you need to attend a farm property and unsure whether you should, please contact your Unit Coordinator who will liaise with our Farm Supervisor.

Anyone entering the property will be required to disinfect their personal protective equipment. Any person bringing a vehicle onto a Murdoch University farming property will be required to disinfect the tyres and underside of the vehicle. Disinfectants will be available at the entrance to the sites.

While the risk of transmission is minimal, given an outbreak of FMD could devastate Australia’s livestock industries and other serious consequential effects, it is important Murdoch University implements these protocols to limit any risk of the virus entering the properties. These protocols will remain in place until further notice.

This is Murdoch University’s initial response to this threat and a review of our practices will be undertaken to ensure all appropriate measures are being taken to prevent such threats impacting Murdoch University’s livestock.

Your adherence to these protocols is vital and appreciated.