Avian flu detected in west Michigan poultry facility

Highly pathogenic avian influenza has been detected in a commercial poultry facility in Muskegon County, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced Tuesday.

While the human public health risk associated with avian influenza is low, state officials encouraged all bird owners to take preventative measures to protect their flocks.

The disease was first detected in Michigan last year, and this is the second case in a commercial facility in Muskegon County. Another case was reported in northern Michigan earlier this month and there was a larger outbreak in 2022.

The virus is highly contagious among birds and can be spread by wild birds as well as through contact with infected poultry, equipment and the clothing of caretakers, officials said.

"While this latest detection is unfortunate, it is not unexpected as wild birds are still present on the landscape with the mild winter temperatures," State Veterinarian Nora Wineland said in a statement Tuesday. "Direct or indirect contact with infected wild birds have been the point of infection for many of the HPAI-positive flocks in Michigan."

Owners of domestic birds should bring them indoors or ensure outdoor areas are fully enclosed, the state recommends. They should also wash their hands and disinfect boots as well as other gear when moving between coops, disinfect equipment between uses, provide well or municipal drinking water for birds and keep poultry feed secure from wild birds and rodents.

Cases like this are every poultry farmer's worst fear, said Nancy Barr, executive director of Michigan Allied Poultry Industries.

"Michigan's poultry farmers provide the best care for their animals by maintaining among the highest levels of biosecurity in the industry. However, HPAI can be extremely contagious and despite their best efforts, this virus finds its way to the birds," Barr said.

Multiple sudden deaths in a flock, a decline in egg production or water consumption, diarrhea, sneezing and coughing are all signs bird owners and caretakers should stay on the lookout for.

Suspected cases of avian influenza can be reported to the state Department of Agriculture at (800) 292-3939 during the day or (517) 373-0440 after hours.

Anyone who notices unusual or unexplained deaths of wild birds can report cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources via the organization's "Eyes in the Field app" or by calling (517) 336-5030.

People should always properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs, although none of the infected birds or their products will enter the commercial food chain, officials said in the news release.

The commercial poultry facility where the virus was detected is currently under quarantine and the birds there will be depopulated, or euthanized, to prevent disease spread, the state said.

hmackay@detroitnews.com