The spread of highly pathogenic Avian influenza, or bird flu, continues to raise concerns in Illinois. Affecting commercial poultry, wild birds, and even mammals, the H5N1 strain is highly contagious and potentially deadly. University of Illinois experts emphasize biosecurity measures, urging the public to avoid handling sick or dead wildlife and to report cases to authorities. While the risk to humans remains low, precautions are advised for farmers, pet owners, and hunters to prevent further spread.
Health officials in Illinois are on high alert after suspected cases of bird flu have impacted poultry and wildlife across the state. A northern Illinois farm reported the loss of 3,000 chickens believed to be linked to the virus, joining reports of infections in Indiana and Missouri poultry. Wild and captive animals have also been affected, with a wild goose in Tazewell County and a captive hawk in DuPage County testing positive. Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo confirmed the deaths of a flamingo and a seal from highly pathogenic Avian influenza earlier this month. While no cases have emerged in dairy cattle, authorities are urging vigilance.
The spread of bird flu from animals to humans is rare but not impossible. Since 2024, 67 cases of HPAI and one fatality have been reported in humans in the U.S. Many are farm workers who contracted it from infected dairy cattle or poultry. Infections have not spread from human to human. The H5N1 virus can present as mild respiratory problems, pink eye, gastrointestinal problems, or no symptoms at all in healthy people, said Dr. Lowe. Those who are more vulnerable can have severe respiratory distress.
Cooking meat and pasteurizing milk kills viruses, but the risk remains for raw products. “I would say the risk to humans is incredibly small, at this time, from the dairy products that we’ve consumed from stores,” said Professor of Animal Sciences Jim Drackley in an interview. “I would always recommend that people don’t consume raw milk, in which case the virus could still be there.”
Infected birds may have low energy or appetite, reduced or altered egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, diarrhea, or sudden death with no prior signs. Avoid handling dead or dying wild or domestic birds, and do not send birds to veterinarians or wildlife rehabilitators. Report five or more sick or dead wild birds to a local IDNR District Wildlife Biologist or USDA Wildlife Services at 1-866-487-3297.
Bird Flu Safety Precautions:
- When outdoors: Do not handle sick or dead wildlife. Report five or more sick or dead wild birds in an area to an Illinois Department of Natural Resources District Wildlife Biologists: Joe Rogus (LaSalle County), 815-476-2523; Jared Trickey (Bureau County), 815-718-8930; Megan Dassow (Marshall-Putnam Counties), 217-784-4730; or USDA Wildlife Services at 1-866-487-3297.
- Farm workers: Apply biosecurity measures to protect flocks and wear personal protective equipment. The Illinois Department of Public Health has specific guidelines for H5N1. Report suspected infections to the Illinois Department of Agriculture at (217) 782-4944.
- Pet owners: Monitor pets and keep them on a leash when outside. Do not let them come into contact with dead wildlife. Avoid raw pet food products.
- Waterfowl hunters: Cook game meat to an internal temperature of 165 degrees. Find more information on hunters and bird flu.
- Questions? Connect with your local University of Illinois Extension office at 815-224- 0896 for more guidance.
