Prairie State Wire

The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) has announced a temporary suspension on poultry exhibitions and sales at various venues, including swap meets, exhibitions, flea markets, and auction markets. This 30-day suspension is effective from February 11, 2025, and aims to curb the spread of H5N1 avian flu in Illinois.

Dr. Mark Ernst, IDOA State Veterinarian, emphasized the importance of prevention in controlling the disease: "Prevention is our most effective tool to mitigate the spread of avian flu. By being proactive in biosecurity and limiting poultry movement and exposure, we are protecting the public as well as the poultry industry."

Avian flu is caused by an influenza type A virus affecting both domestic poultry like chickens and turkeys and wild birds such as waterfowl. The virus can be highly infectious and often fatal for chickens, spreading quickly between flocks.

The IDOA advises poultry flock owners, managers, and veterinarians to report any unusual symptoms in their birds immediately. Symptoms include increased mortality rates, reduced water consumption or egg production, and respiratory issues like coughing or sneezing. Reports should be directed to IDOA at 217-782-4944 or the USDA at 866-536-7593.

Public health precautions include avoiding handling sick wild birds or waterfowl. Pets should also be kept away from potentially infected bird carcasses to prevent further infection risks.

Dr. Sameer Vohra from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) expressed support for this precautionary measure: "The Illinois Department of Public Health strongly supports this precautionary move by the Department of Agriculture to reduce the spread of the H5N1 avian flu virus." He added that while there are no known human cases in Illinois yet, reducing potential contact with infected animals will enhance preparedness.

Although avian flu has been detected in dairy cattle elsewhere, no cases have been reported in Illinois so far. Cattle tend to have lower mortality rates compared to poultry when infected.

For more information about avian flu prevention measures and updates on outbreaks, individuals can visit aphis.usda.gov/livestock-poultry-disease/avian/avian-influenza/hpai-detections.