MONROE COUNTY, Mich. – A backyard poultry flock in Monroe County tested positive for bird flu, health officials announced.
The bird flu, also known as HPAI, was confirmed in a small flock, marking the county’s first case of bird flu since it was detected in Michigan in 2022, according to a release from the Monroe County Health Department.
Health officials say no human illnesses have been identified and anyone who was potentially exposed to these birds has been contacted.
“We want to share this information to alert residents who own or work with birds, including poultry, to the possibility of infection and to take necessary precautions,” said Jamie Dean, Health Officer/Director at the Monroe County Health Department. “Keeping the public informed, safe, and healthy is our top priority.”
The health department also reminded residents that a person cannot get bird flu by eating properly cooked poultry products.
Symptoms of flocks infected with bird flu
Birds who become infected with bird flu may not show routine signs of being sick, but could experience the following:
- Significant drop in water consumption
- Lack of appetite, energy, or vocalization
- Drop in egg production
- Diarrhea
- Swollen comb, wattles, legs, or head
- Nasal discharge, sneezing or coughing
- Abnormal behavior, like difficulty walking
Precautions to prevent bird flu
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) urges poultry owners to increase biosecurity precautions, including the following:
- 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.
What to do if poultry flock gets sick
If your poultry flock appears to be sick, or sudden deaths occur, you should contact MDARD at 800-292-3939 during the day or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
Anyone who sees unusual deaths in wild birds, and other wildlife is asked to report what they see to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at 517-336-5030 or online.
