Bird Flu Found In 2 More MI Counties: Officials

MICHIGAN — Agriculture officials have detected bird flu in two more Michigan counties, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

Officials said Monday the highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, has been detected bird flu in one backyard flock from Jackson County and two commercial poultry facilities in Ottawa County.

The cases in Ottawa County is the fourth time the disease has been detected in the county this month alone, and the first case in Jackson County since the beginning of the outbreak in 2022, officials said.

Since then, the disease has shown up on 30 dairy farms in Michigan, and made six farmworkers sick.

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

The bird flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, as well as through infected poultry, equipment and clothing and shoes of caretakers, according to state officials.

The public health risk associated with avian influenza is low, and no animals or products infected with the flu will enter the commercial food chain, according to state officials.

"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," Michigan Veterinarian Nora Wineland said. "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."