Great Lakes Wire

Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock in Monroe County. This marks the first detection of HPAI in Monroe County since its initial appearance in Michigan in 2022. MDARD emphasizes the importance of adhering to biosecurity measures and using personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect both domestic animals and public health.

HPAI is known for its high contagion rate, spreading between flocks through various means such as wild birds, infected animals, contaminated equipment, and even on caretakers' clothing and shoes.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that "the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low." Furthermore, it assures that no birds or bird products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. Proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs are recommended.

To safeguard Michigan's domestic birds, whether backyard or commercial flocks, several key steps are advised:

- Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by keeping them indoors or ensuring outdoor areas are enclosed.

- Wash hands before and after handling birds or moving between different coops.

- Disinfect boots and gear when moving between coops.

- Avoid sharing equipment or supplies between coops or farms.

- Clean and disinfect equipment between uses; if disinfection isn't possible, discard items.

- Use well or municipal water for drinking purposes.

- Secure poultry feed to prevent contact with wild birds or rodents.

MDARD continues collaborating with local, state, and federal partners to respond swiftly to reports of sick domestic animals to mitigate HPAI spread effectively.

For reporting possible cases:

Domestic bird owners should look out for sudden deaths within their flock, decreased egg production, reduced water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing/coughing, or an increase in sick birds. Suspected cases should be reported immediately to MDARD at 800-292-3939 during daytime hours or 517-373-0440 after-hours.

For wild birds: Unusual deaths among wild bird populations should be reported to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) via their Eyes in the Field app under Diseased Wildlife option or by calling 517-336-5030 at the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory.

Updates on avian influenza can be received by subscribing through MDARD's website under the Avian Influenza link. Subscribers will receive email notifications about new developments related to avian influenza status in Michigan. Additional resources are available at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.

Further information on PPE use against avian influenza can be found on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website. The U.S. Department of Agriculture's website offers more details on avian influenza prevention measures for flocks.