How to Stay Safe From Bird Flu

Across the country, bird flu is impacting the health of wild species, backyard flocks, and commerce — including pushing the cost of eggs to more than $9 per dozen at some Chicago stores.

Here’s a quick guide to what bird flu is, how it’s affecting Illinois, and how Chicagoans can keep themselves and their pets safe.

What is Bird Flu?

Formally known as the H5N1 avian influenza, bird flu is a viral disease that is highly contagious among wild and domestic birds. Wild waterfowl like geese are the primary carriers, but it is highly contagious to all birds, causing illness and potentially sudden death in an infected bird.

Bird Flu in Illinois

While several dozen wild birds in the state have died from suspected bird flu, there is currently no data on affected species here.

The Illinois agriculture and public health departments have been monitoring bird flu infections in local dairy cows since spring 2024 after some cases were reported in other states.

Can Humans Get Bird Flu?

While the transmission of avian influenza to humans is rare, there have been 66 confirmed human cases in the United States. There are no confirmed cases of bird flu in humans in Illinois.

The current public health risk is low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, though livestock workers and people who are often exposed to wild birds are at higher risk for infection.

To prevent infection, the CDC recommends people stay away from sick or dead animals, avoid touching or drinking raw milk, and properly cook poultry, eggs, and beef.

The Illinois Department of Public Health has helpful tips for disposing of dead birds on your property and reporting multiple bird deaths.

How to Keep Pets Safe From Bird Flu

Transmission of bird flu to other animals is also rare, but pet owners are encouraged to keep pets from coming into contact with wild birds. Bird flu infection in animals can mimic rabies, so contact a veterinarian immediately if a pet starts acting erratically.