H5N1 Alert: USDA Confirms Cases of Pathogenic Avian Influenza in Illinois
Mar 15, 2022
On Saturday, the United States Department of Agriculture confirmed cases of the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Illinois and Kansas.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza – also known as H5N1 or HPAI – can wreak havoc on commercial and non-commercial flocks. This past week, the USDA confirmed the presence of HPAI in multiple non-commercial backyard mixed species flocks (poultry) in McLean County, Illinois. The virus has also been confirmed in other states including Kansas, Iowa and Wisconsin.
In a March 12 statement, the USDA Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) announced that they are “working closely with state animal health officials in both states on joint incident responses. State officials quarantined the affected premises, and birds on the properties will be depopulated to prevent the spread of the disease. Birds from the flocks will not enter the food system.”
Follow CDC Guidelines to Prevent the Spread of Avian Flu
We recommend following strict guidelines to prevent the continued spread of this pathogenic virus, including:
- Avoid direct contact with birds, especially those appearing ill
- Avoid contact with surfaces contaminated with feces of wild or domestic birds
- If contact is necessary, wear gloves when handling birds
- Hunters should dress game birds in the field and practice good biosecurity measures
- Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds
Federal and state officials are currently working together on an avian influenza response plan for surveillance and testing in areas around infected flocks. Currently, no human cases of avian flu have been detected, according to the announcement.
Wild Goose Chase Working with Clients to Protect Flocks
As always, Wild Goose Chase strives to provide our clients and the public with accurate, humane, responsible, and safe bird management, whether that is geese in a pond or chickens on a farm.
At this time, we recommend that you follow CDC guidelines for care around birds and reporting sick or dead birds. You can find more information about the current status of the outbreak here.
We are monitoring this situation closely and are happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have about the outbreaks and what they may mean for you. For more information about how we can help with farm biosecurity, please contact us through the link below.
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