MICHIGAN — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development is urging animal owners to take preventative measures against highly pathogenic avian influenza as wild birds complete their spring migration. State officials issued the warning on March 20, following the detection of three cases in the state so far this year.
Highly pathogenic avian influenza, or HPAI, is a highly contagious zoonotic virus that can affect both animals and people. The virus spreads through contact with infected animals, equipment and the clothing or shoes of caretakers. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the current public health risk associated with the disease remains low.
In 2025, Mich. recorded 10 detections of HPAI in commercial poultry flocks and 12 detections in backyard flocks. Nearly all of these cases were identified during the early spring or late fall months, which coincide with wild bird migration patterns. Officials noted that the virus thrives in the cool and damp conditions typically found as spring arrives.
Michigan’s dairy herds saw no detections of HPAI in 2025. The state achieved Stage 4 / Unaffected Status in July 2025 as part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Milk Testing Strategy. While the virus is no longer being detected in herds, state officials continue testing and monitoring to ensure no new cases emerge.
Dr. Nora Wineland serves as the state veterinarian for the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. She emphasized that the movement of wild birds is directly linked to the spread of the virus. “When wild birds move, so does HPAI,” Wineland said. “Even though there were only three cases of HPAI detected so far this year, the spring migration season brings an increased risk for transmission of the virus. It is imperative that owners continue to actively protect their flocks and herds from exposure to wild birds and their germs.”
To protect domestic animals, MDARD recommends that owners prevent contact between livestock and wild birds. Biosecurity measures include limiting non-essential visitors to farms and washing hands before and after caring for animals. Owners are also advised not to share equipment between different farms and to clean all footwear and clothing used around sick animals with EPA-registered disinfectants.
Animal owners should also secure feed to prevent contact with rodents or wild birds. MDARD suggests allowing sufficient downtime between visits to different poultry and dairy operations to prevent the virus from being carried between facilities. The CDC advises the public to properly handle and cook all meat and eggs and to avoid consuming raw milk.
HPAI is a reportable disease for all animal species in Michigan. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic animals, owners should contact MDARD at 800-292-3939 during the day or 517-373-0440 after hours. Unusual behaviors or deaths among wild birds and other wildlife should be reported to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources through the Eyes in the Field app or by calling 517-336-5030.
Animal owners can subscribe to receive email notifications and alerts regarding the status of avian influenza by visiting the MDARD website. Additional biosecurity resources and updates will be posted at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu as new developments occur.