MONTCALM COUNTY, Mich. – Bird flu has been detected in a dairy herd from Montcalm County.
The cases are believed to be linked to bird flu (HPAI) cases found in cattle in Texas. The farm recently received cattle from an affected area in Texas before that herd was known to have bird flu. When the cattle were moved from Texas to Michigan they did not appear ill.
MDARD is working with the government and Michigan dairy farmers to prevent the disease from spreading.
“This case does reflect a lot of what is already known about this virus -- namely, that it is highly contagious, it continues to be primarily spread by wild birds and contact with infected animals, and mammals can contract the virus,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM.
The public health risk associated with HPAI is low. The FDA and CDC have said the commercial milk supply is safe due to pasteurization.
If anyone believes they have seen an animal with HPAI they are asked to contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
---> Read: Dairy cattle in Texas and Kansas test positive for bird flu
What is HPAI?
Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) is a very contagious virus that can be spread between flocks through contact with infected birds, equipment, or the clothing and shoes of caretakers.
The virus has been detected in various mammals, it is believed they got it after having contact with sick birds.
One of the major indicators of HPAI is sudden death and high death losses. Sick birds may show neurological signs like difficulty walking, lack of appetite, low energy, or lack of vocalization.
You might notice a significant drop in egg production, swollen combs, wattles, legs, or head. They could also have diarrhea, nasal discharge, sneezing, or coughing.
Ducks and geese are considered carriers, but geese generally do not pass on bird flu.
How to protect domestic birds
The Michigan DNR has offered the following steps to protect the health of birds you care for:
- 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.
Can humans get HPAI?
Yes. While it primarily affects birds, it is a zoonotic disease and can potentially pass from domestic or wild animals to humans.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with HPAI remains low, but advises people to avoid handling any sick or dead wild birds.
How to report possible cases of bird flu
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should keep an eye out for 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 you suspect birds you care for have avian influenza, you should contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
Anyone who notices unusual or unexplained deaths among wild birds can report cases to the Michigan Department of Resources online using the Eyes in the Field app or by calling the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.