Bird flu confirmed in Montmorency County flock: What to know

MONTMORENCY COUNTY, Mich. – Bird owners are encouraged to take steps to protect their flocks after birds in Montmorency County tested positive for bird flu.

Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a backyard flock from Montmorency County. This is the first case of HPAI in Bay County since the disease was first detected in Michigan in 2022.

“Unfortunately, the HPAI virus is not impeded by colder temperatures, and it will continue to remain a threat as long as wild birds are continuing to carry the virus,” said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “Keeping domestic birds away from natural bodies of water, not feeding them next to wild birds or in areas where wild birds have been, and preventing them from interacting with wild birds are all essential practices to ensure domestic birds can stay healthy and safe.”

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.

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.

H5N1 bird flu in Michigan

The following data comes from the CDC.