Safety Information on the Avian Flu
WILL COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT
The Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR) is monitoring a large event of waterfowl mortality at numerous locations throughout Illinois.
Test results received so far indicate highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is the cause. The public is reminded to not handle or attempt to capture waterfowl or other wild birds displaying signs of illness.
Due to risk of infection to other animals, dogs and other pets should be kept away from the carcasses of birds that may have died from HPAI. If carcasses need to be disposed of, IDNR recommends following guidance from the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH). IDNR is unable to assist with carcass removal from non-IDNR properties in most situations.
Additional recommendations for the public:
- Members of the public are encouraged to report concentrations of five or more deceased birds found at one location to IDNR district wildlife biologists by visiting: wildlifeillinois.org
- Do not send dying or dead birds to veterinarians, wildlife refuges, etc., for testing.
- If the public develops any symptoms of the “flu” – fever, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, body aches, headaches, eye redness, vomiting or diarrhea – after exposure to sick or dead birds, please notify your local healthcare provider and let any health care facility know of your exposure.
- Treatment must be started within two days of illness for it to be most effective, so the public is urged to not delay seeking care.
The Department reminds waterfowl hunters to take precautions and thoroughly cook game meat to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid handling sick or dead waterfowl found in the field. Further guidance for hunters can be found here.
