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For immediate release: April 2, 2024
Sick domestic bird calls: 800-292-3939
Media contacts: Jennifer Holton, 517-284-5724 or Chelsea Lewis-Parisio, 517-331-1151
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Ionia County Flock
As wild birds complete their spring migration, prevention is essential to keeping Michigan’s
animals healthy and safe
LANSING, MI - Following a report to 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 commercial poultry
facility from Ionia County. Since the disease was first detected in Michigan in 2022, this is the
fourth detection of HPAI in a commercial facility, and the first detection in Ionia County. As wild
birds complete their spring migration, it is crucial for every producer to protect their animals from
wild birds and the germs they could be carrying.
“As the weather remains cool and wild birds continue their migration, conditions are ideal for
the virus to thrive and spread. While these conditions persist, the need to take preventative
measures will be high,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM.
“Keeping HPAI out of Michigan’s domestic animals remains a team effort, and it must be a top
priority for all.”
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. To protect other facilities in Michigan, the premises is currently under quarantine, and the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread. These efforts also help to ensure the safety and integrity of the commercial food supply.
"Michigan's egg farmers are among the most proactive in the country, with their diligence leading to rapid detection of HPAI in this flock,” said Dr. Nancy Barr, executive director of Michigan Allied Poultry Industries. “Strict biosecurity measures are in place to protect flocks from the increased threat of HPAI.”
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with avian influenza remains low. Also, no animals or products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all food.
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:
- 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.
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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.
MDARD is continuing to work diligently with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of HPAI to best mitigate the spread of the disease and provide outreach.
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.
Stay Up to Date
Subscribe to receive email notifications by visiting MDARD’s website and clicking on the “Avian Influenza” link. After entering a valid email address, subscribers will receive updates and alerts regarding the status of avian influenza in Michigan whenever there are new developments to report. Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.
More information on avian influenza and how to protect flocks through preventative measures can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website.
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