The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) urged animal owners on Mar. 20 to continue taking steps to prevent highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) as wild birds migrate through the state this spring.
This warning comes as the risk of HPAI transmission increases with the seasonal movement of wild birds, which can spread the virus to domestic animals. The department said that even though only three cases have been detected so far this year, vigilance is important due to conditions that favor the virus.
“When wild birds move, so does HPAI. Even though there were only three cases of HPAI detected so far this year, the spring migration season brings an increased risk for transmission of the virus,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “This virus thrives in the cool damp conditions that are common as spring arrives. It is imperative that owners continue to actively protect their flocks and herds from exposure to wild birds and their germs.”
HPAI is a contagious disease that spreads through contact with infected animals or contaminated equipment and clothing. It can affect both animals and people but public health risk remains low according to guidance from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
In 2025, Michigan recorded ten detections in commercial poultry flocks and twelve in backyard flocks—mostly during bird migration periods in early spring or late fall—and no detections among dairy cattle herds last year after achieving Stage 4 / Unaffected Status under federal milk testing protocols in July 2025.
Animal owners are advised by MDARD to prevent contact between domestic animals and wild birds, limit non-essential farm visitors, practice handwashing before and after caring for animals, avoid sharing equipment between farms, clean clothing and gear used around sick animals with EPA-registered disinfectants effective against avian influenza, secure feed supplies from wildlife access, allow downtime between visits at different operations, consult veterinarians if concerns arise about animal health—and report suspected cases immediately.
The department plays a role in preserving Michigan’s environment while supporting farming communities that supply consumer needs according to its official website. MDARD safeguards a food and agriculture system valued at nearly $126 billion according to its official website while fostering economic growth in food production sectors along with protecting public health, animal welfare and natural resources according to its official website. Its reach extends across Michigan’s entire food system according to its official website, contributing broadly through environmental preservation efforts for farming communities according to its official website.
MDARD also enforces laws related to weights and measures oversight of commodity boards according to its official website. The department advances economic growth using innovative strategies while protecting consumers by enforcing regulations on animal health controls; it manages commodity boards within Michigan’s agriculture sector according to its official website.
Animal owners seeking more information or updates about avian influenza may subscribe via MDARD’s Avian Influenza page or visit Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.
