IDNR, IDPH, and IDOA are monitoring waterfowl deaths caused by the avian flu |

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — Avian influenza is being monitored in Illinois following many waterfowl deaths caused by the illness according to multiple state agencies.

The IDNR, IDPH, and IDOA monitor the transmission of the illness at many locations throughout the state.

In a media release, the agencies want to remind people not to catch or handle waterfowl or birds with illness symptoms.

The IDNR said to port five or more dead birds found in one location to them online.

Because pets are at risk of infection, IDPH encourages people to keep their pets away from dead animals.

The agency said to contact your local health department if one needs to be disposed of.

Currently, there are no human cases of avian flu in the state, but IDNR warns that if you handle a dead bird, you can get the illness. Signs and symptoms of the avian flu include fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, headaches, red eyes, vomiting, and diarrhea. If you think you are infected, contact your local health department as soon as possible.

If infected, humans can take antiviral medications to prevent further illness, but treatment must occur within 2 days of exposure.

“While avian influenza generally poses a low risk to the population, it is essential to take the necessary steps to avoid exposure and to seek treatment quickly if you are exposed,” said 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 to take any potential exposure seriously. These common-sense steps can help reduce the likelihood of spreading this illness.”

IDNR said they do not recommend that wildlife rehabilitators take in waterfowl or other aquatic birds due to the elevated risk of HPAI currently.

IDNR also wants to remind hunters to take extra precautions when cooking game meat. They said the internal temperature should be 165 degrees Fahrenheit. They added that they should not touch any sick or dead waterfowl while out hunting.

“The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) encourages poultry owners to be aware of the risk, increase biosecurity measure 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 to be aware of IDPH’s recommendations regarding exposure to sick birds.”

In addition to finding HPAI in wild birds like waterfowl, the illness has been transmitted to poultry.

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