Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Ottawa County

Following a report to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry facility in Ottawa County.

Biosecurity remains the best tool available to combat HPAI. MDARD continues to urge producers with flocks of all sizes to enhance their biosecurity measures to reduce the risk of introducing this virus to their farms. Following a few key steps is fundamental to protect the health and vitality of Michigan's domestic birds:

• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between coops and farms. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.

MDARD is continuing to work diligently with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of HPAI to best mitigate the spread of the disease and provide outreach.

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