An outbreak of F-M-D affecting livestock has spread to the popular tourist island of Bali, increasing the risk of reaching Australia for the first time in more than a century.
Foot and Mouth Disease, or F-M-D, causes painful blisters and sores on the mouths and feet of animals including cattle, sheep, pigs, goats, and even camels.
This prevents them from eating and in some cases causes severe lameness and death.
Although it is not a risk to human health, people are often carriers. They can spread the disease through their shoes, clothing, or nose, where the disease can last up to 24 hours. This means that tourists from Indonesia may accidentally bring F-M-D into the country.
