SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Agriculture announced the return of poultry shows for the 2023 fair season. The highly pathogenic avian influenza cases forced the cancellation of in-person junior and open poultry shows at Illinois county fairs and the Illinois State Fair in 2022, with only virtual poultry shows being held. Authorities say you should monitor your flock for signs of disease, especially with 14 days of an exhibition. The Illinois State Fair runs from August 10th through the 20th.
“We have seen a decline in highly pathogenic avian influenza cases over the last several months prompting the Department to lift the ban of poultry shows at our fairs,” said Dr. Mark Ernst, IDOA State Veterinarian.
