Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Detected in Branch County Backyard Flock

Prevention is key to keeping HPAI out of Michigan’s domestic flocks

LANSING, MI – 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 non-commercial backyard poultry flock from Branch County. With this case being the third finding of the virus announced by MDARD last week, Michigan’s bird owners need to take every measure to keep wild birds away and protect their flocks.

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 flocks in Michigan, the premises is currently under quarantine, and the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread.

The flock contained approximately 20 birds of various species. 

“As wild birds continue to migrate and spread the virus, it is not unexpected to see more cases of HPAI being detected in domestic flocks across the state. However, by implementing and following preventative measures, we all can minimize these cases and protect Michigan’s domestic birds,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland. 

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 are encouraged to use caution when selecting food for themselves and their families as well as to 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.

• Disinfecting boots and other gear when moving between coops.

• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.

• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.

• Using 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 sick or dead domestic birds to best mitigate the spread of HPAI and provide outreach.

Reporting Possible Cases for Domestic Birds: Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for unusual deaths, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, 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.

Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.