Poultry exhibition ban lifted

A temporary suspension has been lifted by the Illinois Department of Agriculture on the sale and exhibition of poultry at swap meets, flea markets and auctions.

Initially, the suspension was issued in February to help reduce the spread of the H5N1 virus, or Avian Influenza.

Any usual symptoms should be reported by poultry owners, like increased mortality, decreased egg production, decreased water consumption or respiratory issues. Reports can be made to the Illinois Department of Agriculture at 217-782-4944.

The IDOA state veterinarian said they will re-evaluate should conditions change but they feel it is safe to resume poultry exhibitions and sales for now.