‘YOU ARE ENTERING AN INFECTED AREA. RABIES.’ This sign warned of the presence of rabies, a dangerous and often fatal disease. It is caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and causes the brain to swell. This can lead to paralysis, coma and death if untreated. Rabies can spread from infected animals to humans, usually by being bitten or licked, and dogs most commonly spread the disease. Rabies was eradicated in the UK in 1922. However, it is still present on the continent. Strict government controls on the movement of animals across borders help control the spread of rabies.

The UK’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries issued this sign during the late 1980s. The ministry was dissolved in 2002. The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has taken on its responsibilities.

The UK’s Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries issued the sign which this stand holds during the late 1980s.