The Illinois Department of Agriculture is extending emergency rules to further protect poultry from avian influenza.
The Avian Flu is still a concern according to State Veterinarian Dr. Mark Ernst. he reports the virus is still being detected in Illinois as of last week. So, the emergency rules banning the sale or showing of poultry at flea markets, swap meets, and exhibitions will continue and be re-evaluated in 45 days.
“Basically we don’t want them in situations where birds are comingled between flocks and then the opportunity for them to carry disease back into their home flock.”
Illinois 4-H is announcing that county fair poultry shows will be virtual for now. A decision about the State Fair will be made by June 17th.
