Great Lakes Wire

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Ingham County. The detection was made by the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory in a backyard flock. This marks the second instance of HPAI in an Ingham County flock since its initial discovery in Michigan in 2022.

HPAI is known for being highly contagious, with transmission possible through wild birds, contact with infected animals, equipment, and even on the clothing and shoes of those caring for the birds. Despite this, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that "the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low." Furthermore, no affected birds or bird products will be introduced into the commercial food supply.

MDARD advises that both small backyard bird owners and large commercial operations follow specific biosecurity measures to protect their flocks. These include preventing contact between domestic and wild birds, maintaining strict hygiene practices such as hand washing and disinfecting gear when moving between coops, not sharing equipment between different farms, and ensuring poultry feed is secure from wild birds or rodents.

The department continues its efforts alongside local, state, and federal partners to address reports of sick domestic animals promptly to mitigate HPAI spread effectively.

Domestic bird owners should remain vigilant for symptoms like sudden deaths in flocks, reduced egg production, decreased water intake, diarrhea, sneezing or coughing among birds. Suspected cases should be reported immediately to MDARD via provided contact numbers.

For unusual deaths among wild birds, individuals are encouraged to report these incidents using the Michigan Department of Natural Resources' (DNR) resources such as the Eyes in the Field app or by calling their Wildlife Disease Laboratory.

MDARD also offers email notifications for updates on avian influenza developments via their website. Additional guidance on personal protective equipment can be found on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website. More comprehensive information about avian influenza prevention can be accessed through the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website.