January 31, 2025
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State officials warn public to keep pets away from dead birds

Doing so will reduce bird flu infection in other animals

By Eric Schelkopf
FILE -This colorized electron microscope image released by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on March 26, 2024, shows avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (yellow), grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells (blue). (CDC/NIAID via AP, File)

FILE -This colorized electron microscope image released by the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases on March 26, 2024, shows avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (yellow), grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells (blue). (CDC/NIAID via AP, File) (AP)

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources has advised that bird flu is causing waterfowl deaths throughout the state.

Because of the risk of infection to other animals, the IDNR is advising that dogs and other pets should be kept away from the carcasses of birds that may have died from bird flu.

“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,” Illinois Department of Public Health Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said in a news release. “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.”

State officials are also warning people not to handle or attempt to capture waterfowl or other wild birds displaying signs of illness. IDNR will continue to monitor for bird flu throughout the state during the seasonal bird migration.

Members of the public are encouraged to report concentrations of five or more deceased birds found at one location to IDNR district wildlife biologists at wildlifeillinois.org/idnr-district-wildlife-biologist.