ATLANTA – A Montmorency chicken flock has been diagnosed with avian flu.
MDARD has imposed a quarantine on the affected premises, and the killing of about 100 birds in the flock has been deemed necessary to prevent the further spread of the disease. This proactive measure aims to protect other flocks in Michigan
Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a backyard flock from Montmorency County.
This is the first case of HPAI in Montmorency County since the disease was first detected in the state in 2022. Despite the cooler winter temperatures, it is still vital for every bird owner to protect their flock from being exposed to wild birds and the germs they could be carrying.
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can be spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, through contact with infected poultry, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers.
State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM, emphasized the importance of safeguarding domestic birds from exposure to wild birds and the germs they may carry.
Whether it’s a few backyard birds or a large commercial flock, following a few key steps is fundamental to protect the health and vitality of Michigan’s domestic birds:
- Isolate Domestic Birds: Keeping domestic birds away from natural bodies of water, refraining from feeding them near wild birds or in areas frequented by wild birds, and preventing direct interaction between domestic and wild birds are vital steps.
- Hygiene Measures: Bird owners are advised to practice proper hand hygiene by washing hands before and after handling birds and when moving between different coops. Additionally, disinfecting boots and other gear when transitioning between coops is crucial.
- Prevent Cross-Contamination: Equipment and supplies should not be shared between coops or farms. Proper cleaning and disinfection of equipment and supplies between uses are necessary. If an item cannot be adequately disinfected, it should be discarded.
- Safe Water Supply: Using well or municipal water as drinking water for birds can help ensure there is no contamination through contact with wild birds or rodents.
Secure Poultry Feed: Keeping poultry feed secure to prevent any contact between the feed or its ingredients and wild birds or rodents is imperative.
Reporting Possible Cases
For Domestic Birds
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for multiple sudden deaths in the flock, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing/coughing, or an increase in sick birds. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
For Wild Birds
If anyone notices what appears to be unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, please report these cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) by:
- Using the DNR’s Eyes in the Field app. Choose the “Diseased Wildlife” option among the selections for “Observation Forms.”
- Calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.
