IL Dept. of Ag lifts suspension of poultry exhibition caused by bird flu

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WAND) — The Illinois Department of Agriculture is now allowing the exhibition and sale of poultry following a temporary suspension issued in February.

The suspension was a response to the outbreak of bird flu, which the department notes is still a concern.

“We have closely monitored the threat posed by avian flu and have taken appropriate measures to ensure biosecurity for the safety of both the public and the poultry industry,” said Dr. Mark Ernst, IDOA State Veterinarian. “Should the situation change, we will re-evaluate, but for now, we feel it is safe to resume poultry exhibition and sales.”

IDOA said avian flu is caused by an influenza type A virus which can infect poultry (such as chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail, domestic ducks, geese, and guinea fowl) and wild birds (especially waterfowl). Avian flu virus strains are extremely infectious, often fatal to chickens, and can spread rapidly from flock to flock.

Poultry flock owners, managers, and veterinarians should report any unusual findings in domestic poultry, such as increase in mortality, decrease in water consumption, decrease in egg production, or respiratory signs, including coughing and sneezing, immediately to IDOA at 217-782-4944 or the United States Department of Agriculture at 866-536-7593.

Learn more about avian flu at the USDA website.