The Illinois Department of Agriculture has officially lifted its ban on poultry exhibitions, sales, and swap meets, a restriction first implemented in February amid H5N1 avian flu concerns. After careful monitoring and improvements in the situation, the department has deemed these activities safe to resume. However, officials are urging all poultry owners to remain vigilant. Any unusual deaths or signs of sickness in flocks should still be reported immediately. People are also reminded not to handle sick or dead wild birds to minimize the risk of disease spread. Continued caution remains essential to safeguard both poultry and public health.
“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.”
Poultry flock owners, managers, and veterinarians should report any unusual findings in domestic poultry, such as an increase in mortality, a decrease in water consumption, a 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.
