Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Found in Ottawa County Flock: Protect Your Birds and Health

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a commercial poultry facility in Ottawa County, Michigan. This is the first detection in Michigan poultry since May 2024 and highlights the ongoing importance of biosecurity to safeguard both animal and public health.

What You Need to Know

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory detected the virus during an investigation. MDARD emphasizes the need for strict biosecurity to prevent further spread of HPAI, a virus that can impact domestic birds and pose risks to humans.

“The health of Michigan’s animals and people is our top priority,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “Enhanced biosecurity and monitoring efforts are essential to limiting the spread of this virus.”

How HPAI Spreads

HPAI spreads through contact with infected birds, contaminated equipment, or even caretakers’ clothing and shoes. To prevent further spread:

• Keep domestic birds away from wild birds.
• Disinfect equipment and clothing between uses.
• Monitor flocks for unusual symptoms, such as sudden deaths, decreased egg production, or respiratory issues.

Important: The affected site in Ottawa County is under quarantine, and the birds are being depopulated to ensure safety and prevent further spread.

Risk to Humans and Food Safety

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of HPAI to human health remains low. Additionally, no infected birds or their products will enter the food supply. Properly handling and cooking poultry and eggs eliminates any potential risk.

How to Protect Your Flock

Follow these simple biosecurity measures to keep your birds safe:

• Bring birds indoors or fully enclose outdoor areas.
• Wash hands before and after handling birds.
• Disinfect boots and gear between coops.
• Use clean drinking water and secure feed to keep it away from wild birds or rodents.

Reporting Suspected Cases

Domestic Birds
If you notice symptoms like sudden deaths, sneezing, coughing, or diarrhea in domestic birds, report them to MDARD immediately:

• Call 800-292-3939 during the day.
• Call 517-373-0440 after hours.

Wild Birds
Report unusual wild bird deaths to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR):

• Use the DNR Eyes in the Field app.
• Call the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

Stay Updated

For updates on avian influenza in Michigan:

• Visit MDARD’s Avian Influenza Page and sign up for email alerts.
• Learn about personal protective equipment at the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.
• Find flock protection resources on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Avian Influenza Page.

Protect your flock and community by staying vigilant and practicing strong biosecurity. Visit Michigan.gov/BirdFlu for more information.