The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) announced the presence of bird flu in a commercial poultry facility from Ottawa County.
The detection, made by the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, is the first in a Michigan poultry flock since May 2024 when the state managed the largest outbreak of the disease. It’s the second case of the virus in a commercial poultry facility from Ottawa County since bird flu was first detected in Michigan in 2022.
”Since this disease is capable of affecting animals and the people who care for them, it is important for farm workers to continue using personal protective equipment to protect themselves and their loved ones,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Preventing spread from animals to humans is vital if we want to limit the impact of this virus.”
Bird flu is a highly contagious virus that can be spread through contact with infected animals including wild birds, farm equipment, and clothing and shoes.
MDARD confirmed the affected farm in Ottawa County is under quarantine and said the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread.
The public health risk associated with bird flu remains low, and no infected bird products are allowed to enter the commercial food chain. As always, you should properly hand and cook all poultry and eggs.
If you raise birds, whether just a few or a large commercial flock, make sure to follow these steps:
- 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.