Bird flu discovered in Eaton County

Published: Mar. 13, 2023 at 11:29 AM EDT
Email This Link
Share on Pinterest
Share on LinkedIn

EATON COUNTY, Mich. (WILX) - Backyard chickens in Eaton County have been confirmed infected with the first case of bird flu, or highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

To protect other flocks in Michigan, the premises is currently under quarantine, and the birds were depopulated to prevent disease spread. The flock contained approximately 15 chickens.

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.

“While there has not been a detection of HPAI in a Michigan domestic flock since December 2022, the virus has continued to circulate in wild birds. As these birds migrate this spring, their movement increases the risk of disease spread,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland.

Following an investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory said this is the first detection of HPAI in a Michigan domestic flock in 2023, and the first case in Eaton County.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with this avian influenza detection remains low. Also, no birds or bird products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. As a reminder, people should properly handle and cook all poultry and eggs.

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.
  • Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between uses. 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.

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 calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.

More information on avian influenza and how to protect flocks through biosecurity measures can be found on the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s website.

Subscribe to our News 10 newsletter and receive the latest local news and weather straight to your email every morning.