Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is currently monitoring a significant event involving waterfowl mortality across various locations in Illinois. Preliminary test results suggest that highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is responsible for these deaths.

Residents are advised not to handle or attempt to capture wild birds showing signs of illness. IDNR will continue its surveillance for HPAI-related mortality events during the seasonal bird migration. The public is encouraged to report any findings of five or more dead birds at one location through the IDNR's online platform.

To prevent infection, it is recommended that dogs and other pets be kept away from bird carcasses potentially affected by HPAI. If disposal of carcasses is necessary, guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) should be followed. Typically, IDNR does not assist with removing carcasses from non-IDNR properties.

Local animal control agencies are also urged to follow similar precautions when disposing of dead birds. The IDPH advises against sending dying or dead birds to veterinarians or wildlife refuges for testing; instead, local health departments or IDNR wildlife biologists should be notified if multiple deceased birds are found in one area.

People exposed to sick or dead birds should consider antiviral medications as a preventive measure against illness. Symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, body aches, headaches, eye redness, vomiting, or diarrhea after exposure should prompt immediate notification to local health departments and medical facilities about the exposure history.

“While avian influenza generally poses a low risk to the population, it is essential to take the necessary steps to avoid exposure and seek treatment quickly if you are exposed,” stated IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “We encourage all Illinoisans to follow the advice of the experts at IDNR in order to avoid contact with sick birds and take any potential exposure seriously.”

Wildlife rehabilitators are advised not to accept waterfowl and other aquatic birds due to the increased risk of HPAI infection at this time. Caution is also recommended when dealing with raptors and scavengers displaying signs of illness due to potential HPAI exposure.

Waterfowl hunters are reminded by IDNR to take safety measures and ensure game meat is cooked thoroughly at an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Sick or dead waterfowl encountered in the field should not be handled.

Apart from wild bird detections, both Illinois and other states have reported HPAI cases in poultry populations.

“The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) encourages poultry owners to be aware of the risk, increase biosecurity measures and prevent contact with wild birds,” said Dr. Mark Ernst, IDOA state veterinarian. “In addition, we encourage poultry owners to report unusually large mortalities in their flocks and be aware of IDPH’s recommendations regarding exposure to sick birds.”