Great Lakes Wire

Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has identified highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock located in Monroe County. This marks the second instance of HPAI detected in Monroe County since its initial appearance in Michigan in 2022. The importance of adhering to biosecurity measures and using personal protective equipment remains crucial for safeguarding both domestic animals and public health.

HPAI is known for its high contagion potential, spreading between flocks through wild birds, infected animals, contaminated equipment, clothing, and shoes of caretakers. The affected premises have been quarantined, with bird depopulation implemented to curb further transmission.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention assesses that the risk to public health from avian influenza remains low. Furthermore, no infected birds or products will enter the commercial food supply chain. Proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs are advised.

Key preventive steps recommended include preventing contact between domestic and wild birds by keeping them indoors or within enclosed outdoor areas; washing hands before and after bird handling; disinfecting boots and gear when moving between coops; avoiding shared use of equipment among farms; cleaning equipment thoroughly or discarding it if disinfection isn't possible; using well or municipal water as drinking water for birds; securing poultry feed from wild birds or rodents.

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

For reporting suspected cases:

Domestic bird owners should monitor their flocks for sudden deaths, decreased egg production or water consumption, diarrhea, respiratory symptoms like sneezing/coughing, or increased illness rates. Suspected cases should be reported immediately to MDARD at 800-292-3939 during daytime hours or 517-373-0440 after-hours.

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 Observation Forms or by calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

To stay informed on avian influenza developments in Michigan, individuals can subscribe for email notifications through MDARD's website under the Avian Influenza section. Additional resources are available on Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.

Further information on personal protective equipment against avian influenza can be found on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website. For broader details about avian influenza prevention measures for flocks, visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website.