East Sussex County Council has closed all public rights of way in the county to help stop the foot-and-mouth plague.
Members of the public have been asked not to walk or ride horses in the countryside.
The council says it has made the decision because the deadly virus - which affects farm animals, deer and wild boar - is easily spread by footwear, car tyres and horses.
Rights of way manager Nigel Kitchener said: "We are asking the public to avoid using rural paths and countryside sites during this crisis."
Failure to comply with the order is an offence against the Animal Health Act 1981 and anyone convicted faces a fine of up to £5,000.
The Cuckoo Trail from Heathfield to Polegate has been closed, countryside volunteers have been asked to stop work and all this weekend's Exploring East Sussex walks are cancelled.
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