As bird flu season intensifies, wildlife rehabilitation centers are urging the public to exercise caution. Recognizing the highly contagious nature of the virus, which can also affect humans, centers are adapting their intake procedures to safeguard both their staff and animal populations. They are requesting people to send photos of potentially sick birds, allowing experts to assess the situation remotely. This approach has proven effective in diagnosing conditions without the need for physical contact. The centers stress the importance of not interfering with sick wildlife, advising that sometimes letting nature take its course is the safest option for all. The Hog Capitol Wildlife Rescue and Rehab Center in Kewanee is dealing with the bird flu the best they can. They said in a Facebook post, “We have had some awful, nasty accusations thrown at us saying we don’t think, react or care enough. This is not true at all. We passionately care about all injured or sick creatures, but we can only do so much to help. The bird flu is a deadly virus that is highly contagious and can be transmitted to humans as well.”
“If we believe it is contagious, we will ask you to please not touch and to let nature take its course. We are so sorry this is happening. It is a terrible thing. But we have no choice sometimes.”
“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 recommends that wildlife rehabilitators not accept waterfowl and other aquatic birds because of the elevated risk of infection by HPAI at this time. Caution should also be taken when accepting raptors, scavengers, and other birds displaying signs of illness due to risk of exposure to HPAI. Further guidance for wildlife rehabilitators regarding HPAI can be found online.”