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Avian Influenza (Bird Flu)
What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza?
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly called “bird flu,” is a virus found among various species of birds. HPAI viruses can infect domestic poultry, which includes chickens, turkeys, pheasants, quail, ducks, geese, and guinea fowl.
The virus also infects a wide variety of other birds, including wild migratory waterfowl. HPAI has even been detected in various species of mammals—presumably after the animals come into contact with infected wild birds. For more information on current detections in domestic poultry, livestock, and wildlife across the U.S., please visit the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s webpage.
MDARD's Response
On May 1st, 2024, Director Dr. Tim Boring signed a Determination of Extraordinary Emergency, HPAI Risk Reduction Response Order, to further protect Michigan's poultry and livestock industries from the ongoing threat of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) (view press release).
06/28/2024 |
MDARD HPAI Order FAQ for June 26 Amendment: Frequently Asked Questions on the requirements outlined in the June 26 Amendment |
06/26/2024 | Determination of Extraordinary Emergency: June 26 Amendment |
05/13/2024 |
MDARD HPAI Order FAQ for Exhibitions: frequently asked questions for Michigan fairs and exhibitions in response to the HPAI outbreak. |
05/13/2024 |
MDARD HPAI Order FAQ for Biosecurity: questions for required enhanced biosecurity in Michigan as part of the HPAI Risk Reduction Response Order. |
05/03/2024 |
Additional Guidance on HRRRO: Further information on required enhanced biosecurity requirements for both dairy and poultry operations in Michigan in response to this HPAI outbreak. |
05/01/2024 |
On This Page
- What is HPAI?
- Status in Michigan
- Hotlines and Reporting
Report Domestic Animal Diseases:
800-292-3939 (day) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours)
Report Wildlife/Wild Bird Diseases:
517-336-5030 or Eyes in the Field - Biosecurity
Cattle | Poultry | Small Flock | Cattle Producers | Commercial Poultry | Wildlife - For Farms/Farm Workers
- For Veterinarians
- For Fairs
- For Animal Control
- For The General Public
- Recursos en Español
- Media Resources
- HPAI News
Current Status in Michigan's Domestic Animals
As detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza continue to be discovered throughout Michigan, it remains vital for every producer to take steps to protect their animals.
Cases of the disease continue to be found in Michigan’s wildlife and domestic animals. In March 2024, the virus was also detected in Michigan dairy cattle. Regardless of the species, biosecurity remains the best tool to combat HPAI.
MDARD continues to diligently work with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of HPAI, mitigate the spread of the disease, and provide additional outreach to producers, industry, and other key stakeholders. Stay up to date with the latest information by signing up to receive notifications on HPAI in Michigan.
HPAI's Frequently Asked Questions
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HPAI: What is the Virus, What is MDARD doing?
What is Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza?
HPAI is a highly contagious virus in birds and poultry that can be spread directly by infected wild birds or animals or indirectly through any item that has been exposed to the virus, such as equipment, feed, or the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The virus has been detected in various species of mammals, including Michigan dairy cattle.
What is being done at the state level to prevent and stop the spread of HPAI?
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to work with state and federal partners, veterinarians, Michigan State University Extension, MSU’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and industry stakeholders to provide information to poultry farmers and backyard flock owners about the current disease situation, importance of following (and even increasing) their biosecurity measures, and what signs to look for in their birds.
MDARD continues to take swift action in response to this disease and is closely monitoring and responding to reports of sick domestic birds and HPAI throughout the state. -
HPAI In Poultry: How does HPAI impact birds, eggs, and flocks?
How does HPAI impact infected birds?
HPAI viruses cause severe illness in chickens and turkeys and can wipe out entire flocks in days. Potential symptoms include: sudden death, drop in egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, and diarrhea. Additional symptoms and information may be found on USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's webpage.
Can I get avian influenza from consuming poultry, or eggs?
No. Poultry and eggs that are properly prepared and cooked are safe to eat. Proper food safety practices are important every day. In addition to proper processing, proper handling and cooking of poultry provides protection from viruses and bacteria, including avian influenza. The chance of infected poultry or eggs entering the food chain is extremely low because of the rapid onset of symptoms in poultry as well as the safeguards USDA has in place, which include testing of flocks, and Federal inspection programs.
How do I protect my own 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.
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HPAI In Cattle: How does HPAI impact cattle and milk?
How does HPAI impact infected cattle?
Unlike HPAI in birds which is typically fatal, little to no mortality has been reported among dairy cattle with most animals recovering. The virus may cause a decreased milk supply along with other mild symptoms.
Is it safe to drink milk?
Yes. Milk Products are pasteurized before entering the market. There is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply, or that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health. Pasteurization has continuously proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. Raw milk is not recommended to be consumed, as those who consume raw milk and/or milk products are at risk for a variety of illnesses.
How Can We Help?
How Can We Help?
Report Domestic Animal Diseases: 800-292-3939 (day) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours)
Report Wildlife/Wild Bird Diseases: 517-336-5030 or Eyes in the Field
Biosecurity
Cattle
Cattle Reminders: If cattle producers are noticing decreased lactation, low appetite, abnormal milk, abnormally tacky or loose feces, and/or low fever within their herds, please contact your veterinarian to determine the next appropriate steps to take before reporting.
- Delay or stop incoming or returning animals from herds with unknown or suspect health status.
- Isolate all animals that are new or returning to your farm.
- Monitor the health of your animals daily.
- Contact your veterinarian if there are ever any animal health-related concerns or if you would like to develop a secure food supply plan.
- Sick animals should have dedicated equipment and be cared for after tending to healthy animals first.
- Clothing, footwear, and equipment worn/used around sick animals should not be worn/used around other animals until they are cleaned and disinfected. Use an EPA-registered disinfectant effective against avian influenza.
- Do not share tools, equipment, trailers, etc. with other farms.
- Clean and disinfect the interiors of trailers used to haul animals from other operations.
- Limit non-essential visitors to your farm.
- If individuals have recently been on a poultry farm, they should not visit a dairy operation, and vice versa.
- Require or provide clean clothing and footwear to those entering your farm.
- Use hand-washing stations and provide gloves to those working on your farm.
Poultry
Poultry Reminders: HPAI is NOT evidenced by one dead bird or one coughing/sneezing bird while the remainder of the flock is acting normally. Instead, for small flock owners, look for two or more dead birds within a 24-hour period and symptoms in the rest of the flock (not eating, acting lethargic or sleepy with eyes closed, tucking their head close to their body, and appearing to be puffed up).
Whether you have a few backyard birds or a large commercial flock, following these biosecurity measures can help protect 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 uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
- Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
- Keep poultry feed secure so there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.
MSU Extension Dairy Educator Cora Okkema discusses the enhanced biosecurity measures that are implemented in periods of disease outbreaks in dairy farms.
Video: Personal protection equipment recommendations for dairy workers during an H5N1 outbreak. MSU Educators Martin J Mangual and Paola Bacigalupo Sanguesa showcase the recommended personal protection equipment (PPE) that dairy workers should use to mitigate the risk of infection while working on herds positive for the H5N1 virus. (Vídeo en español)
More Biosecurity Resources
Small Flock
- Avian Influenza Information from MSU Extension Service
- CDC Coops: Doja Chick Video
- CDC Coops: Chick Inn Video
- Cleaning and Disinfecting for HPAI (PDF)
- Protect Your Flock - Infographic (PDF)
- Keeping Our Birds Safe from Avian Influenza Flyer (PDF) - from Michigan Allied Poultry Industries and MSU Extension
Cattle Producers
- Secure Milk Supply Plan
- Secure Beef Supply Plan
- MSU Extension: Biosecurity Basics and Resources
- USDA: Detection of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1) in Dairy Herds (Frequently Asked Questions)
- USDA: Requirements and Recommendations for Livestock
- USDA: Testing Guidance for Labs for Influenza A in Livestock
- USDA: Federal Order to Assist with Developing a Baseline of Critical Information and Limiting the Spread of H5N1 in Dairy Cattle: (Frequently Asked Questions)
- USDA: Federal Order Requiring Testing for and Reporting of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in Livestock
- USDA: Follow up Clarification on Federal Order
- USDA: USDA, HHS Announce New Actions to Reduce Impact and Spread of H5N1
- USDA: USDA Expands Support for Producers to Stop the Spread of H5N1 in Dairy Cattle
- USDA: USDA Announces $824 Million in New Funding to Protect Livestock Health; Launches Voluntary H5N1 Dairy Herd Status Pilot Program
- USDA: Updates on H5N1 Beef Safety Studies
- USDA Michigan Dairy HPAI Surveillance Program: Information on the USDA's nation-wide mandated test of milk from dairy farms and how it affects farms in Michigan.
Commercial Poultry Producers
- Request Equipment: PPE Order Form for Licensed Michigan Poultry Farms (PDF)
- USDA: Defend the Flock Resources
- Poultry Biosecurity Resources
- Center for Food Safety and Public Health Iowa State University Avian Influenza Information
- Secure Egg Supply Plan
- Eggs and Byproducts | SECURE POULTRY SUPPLY (umn.edu)
- Secure Turkey Supply
- Turkeys | SECURE POULTRY SUPPLY (umn.edu)
Wildlife Rehabilitators
- Biosecurity Guidance for Wildlife Rehabilitators (PDF) – from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources
- Manage Wildlife to Prevent Avian Influenza (PDF)
- Wildlife Management : Preventing Access to Barns and Other Facilities (PDF)
- Wildlife Management : Reducing Water Access (PDF)
- Wildlife Management : Protecting Food Resources (PDF)
- Captive Wild Life Biosecurity (PDF)
For Farms/Farm Workers
Looking for information about biosecurity? MDARD has information and resources about biosecurity in agriculture for a variety of types of farms. Choose which applies:
Farm Worker Enhanced Prevention: Center for Disease Control's updated guidance to prevent disease and reduce severity of infections. Includes updated guidance, personal protective equipment infographics, and other resources.
USDA Michigan Dairy HPAI Surveillance Program: Information on the USDA's nation-wide mandated test of milk from dairy farms and how it affects farms in Michigan.
Video: Personal protection equipment recommendations for dairy workers during an H5N1 outbreak: MSU Educators Martin J Mangual and Paola Bacigalupo Sanguesa showcase the recommended personal protection equipment (PPE) that dairy workers should use to mitigate the risk of infection while working on herds positive for the H5N1 virus. (Vídeo en español)
Printable flyers and posters: Printable posters in English and Spanish can be handed out directly to people or posted in visible locations to ensure access to education about HPAI and biosecurity.
MDARD/FRSAN Legacy of the Land grants / MSU Extension Farm Stress Program Resources
MSU Extension Teletherapy Program: MSU Extension partners with a therapy provider to provide telehealth services to farmers, farm families and workers.
For Veterinarians
- World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) Avian Influenza Information
- Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory’s Avian Influenza Resources
- Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory: HPAI in Cattle
- Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Cats: FAQ for Veterinarians regarding HPAI and Cats
For Fairs and Exhibitions
- MDARD HPAI Requirements and Recommendations for Fairs, Exhibitions, and Expositions: essential, enhanced biosecurity measures followed by licensed dairy and commercial poultry facilities to protect Michigan residents, workers and livestock
- USDA: Recommendations to Minimize Influenza Transmission at Dairy Cattle Livestock Exhibitions
- MDARD HPAI Order FAQ for Exhibitions: frequently asked questions for Michigan fairs and exhibitions in response to the HPAI outbreak.
- Resources for Exhibitions: general requirements for fairs and exhibitions in Michigan, including requirements by species
- Animal Check-In Record: record to be submitted to MDARD upon request.
- HPAI Testing Requirements: HPAI Testing Requirements for MI Cattle Going to MI Fairs (PDF).
For The General Public
Public Health
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the public health risk associated with HPAI remains low.
On May 22nd, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services announced Michigan's first human case of HPAI in a dairy farm worker. On May 30th, a second human case of HPAI in a farm worker in Michigan was reported. According to the CDC, the risk to the public remains low. View the CDC's situation and case summary for all in the U.S.
Human Safety
- CDC: Avian Influenza Information - Main Site for Avian Influenza
- CDC News Release: Update: Human Infection with Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus in Texas (4/5/2024)
- CDC News Release: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza A(H5N1) Virus: Identification of Human Infection and Recommendations for Investigations and Response (4/5/2024)
- CDC: Bird Flu Virus Infections in Humans
- CDC: The Risk of HPAI Infection in People is Low
- APHIS: Public Health Monitoring Plan for USDA/APHIS Responders to Detections of Avian Influenza Virus in Poultry - English (PDF)
- APHIS: Plan de vigilancia de la salud pública para los representantes de USDA/APHIS que responden a las detecciones del virus de la influenza aviar en las aves de corral - En Español (PDF)
- APHIS: PPE Recommendations during an HPAI Response (PDF)
- MDHHS: First case of influenza A (H5) detected in Michigan resident
- Michigan Local Health Department Map
Food Safety
The management and elimination of HPAI disease includes practices that ensure no poultry products (meat or eggs) from HPAI positive flocks enter the food chain. As a reminder, it is essential that people follow proper food safety practices when handling and cooking all poultry and eggs products.
As a reminder, it is safe to eat properly handled and cooked poultry in the United States. The proper handling and cooking of poultry and eggs to an internal temperature of 165˚F kills bacteria and viruses, including HPAI viruses.
With regard to the latest detection of HPAI in dairy cattle across the U.S., according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food and Drug Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the commercial milk supply remains safe due to both federal animal health requirements and pasteurization.
USDA’s Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) is announcing results from its testing of retail ground beef. FSIS collected 30 samples of ground beef from retail outlets in the states with dairy cattle herds that had tested positive for the H5N1 influenza virus at the time of sample collection. The samples were sent to APHIS’ National Veterinary Services Laboratories (NVSL) for PCR testing. On May 1, NVSL reported that all samples tested negative for H5N1. These results reaffirm that the meat supply is safe.
For more information, see the FDA's questions and answers about milk safety during highly pathogenic avian influenza outbreaks.
The FDA maintains an HPAI updates page for up-to-date information on national food safety.
USDA APHIS Indemnity and Compensation when Your Flock is Infected
Michigan Poultry Veterinarians GIS Map
Other Animals
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza and Cats: FAQ about HPAI and feral and domestic cats
Printable Flyers and Posters:
- How to Recognize a Sick Bird - Poster (PDF)
- Surveillance Zones & Control Areas: Definitions and Expectations - Infographic (PDF)
- Printable Farm Worker Protection Poster (PDF) (Digital Version (PDF))
- Cartel Imprimible: Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas - Español (PDF) (Versión Digital (PDF))
- Printable "How to Recognize" Bird Flu Flyer (PDF)
- Printable "How to Recognize" Bird Flu Post Cards (PDF)
Recursos en Español
- Vídeo: Protección personal contra la gripe aviar para trabajadores de lecherías. La educadora Paola Bacigalupo Sanguesa de la Universidad Estatal de Michigan discute el equipo (EPP) y prácticas recomendadas para reducir el riesgo de infección del virus H5N1
- Cartel Imprimible: Protección de los Trabajadores Agrícolas - Español (PDF)
- Riesgos de la leche sin pasteurizar (PDF)
- APHIS: Plan de vigilancia de la salud pública para los representantes de USDA/APHIS que responden a las detecciones del virus de la influenza aviar en las aves de corral - En Español (PDF)
- Cartel Imprimible: Cómo reconocer un rebaño lechero enfermo - Español (PDF)
- Cartel Imprimible: Cómo reconocer un ave enferma - Español (PDF)