Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Jackson and Ottawa County Flocks

Using personal protective equipment and other biosecurity protocols remain essential to protecting both animal and public health

Following an investigation by 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 one backyard flock from Jackson County and two commercial poultry facilities in Ottawa County. These latest detections mark the first case of HPAI in Jackson County since the beginning of the outbreak in 2022, and the fourth case in Ottawa County flocks just this month. Adhering to biosecurity measures and using personal protective equipment (PPE) continue to be vital in helping ensure the health of Michigan’s domestic animals and the general public.

“Everyone has a role to play in protecting against HPAI and limiting its capability to take hold and spread,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Following biosecurity protocols, like using personal protective equipment when caring for animals, is critical to ensuring the health of humans and animals.”

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low. Also, no birds or bird products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs.

HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected animals, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The affected premises is currently under quarantine, and the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread. These efforts also help to ensure the safety and integrity of the commercial food supply.

“As HPAI continues to circulate in wild birds, taking steps to prevent both direct and indirect contact between wildlife and domestic animals is important to prevent disease introduction,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “Anyone caring for domestic animals needs to be aware of all the ways the virus could spread and take action to mitigate those risks. Protecting animal health will benefit both people and animals.”

Whether it's a few backyard birds or a large commercial flock, following a few key steps is fundamental to protect the health and vitality of Michigan s domestic birds:

• 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.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• 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 sick domestic animals to best mitigate the spread of HPAI and provide outreach.

Reporting Possible Cases

For Domestic Birds
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for multiple sudden deaths in the flock, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing/coughing, or an increase in sick birds. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).

For Wild Birds
If anyone notices what appears to be unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, please report these cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by:

• Using the DNR's Eyes in the Field app. Choose the Diseased Wildlife option among the selections for Observation Forms.
• Calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

Stay Up to Date

Subscribe to receive email notifications by visiting MDARD's website and clicking on the Avian Influenza link. After entering a valid email address, subscribers will receive updates and alerts regarding the status of avian influenza in Michigan whenever there are new developments to report. Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.

For more information on proper use of personal protective equipment to protect against avian influenza, please visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.

More information on avian influenza and how to protect flocks through preventative measures can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture's website.

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