SPRINGFIELD, IL (Chambana Today) – The Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) lifted the suspension of the exhibition or sale of poultry at swap meets, exhibitions, flea markets and auction markets.
The suspension was issued in February due to the H5N1 avian flu and continued through today.
“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.”
Avian flu is caused by an influenza type A virus, which can infect poultry. It is extremely infectious and fatal to chickens.
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