Avian flu has been diagnosed in chickens in a backyard flock in Ontonagon County.
Bird flu is highly contagious, and the virus can spread quickly to other flocks if precautions aren’t taken.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory recommend the following for those who raise chickens and other poultry:
- Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing yours 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 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).
If you notice what appears to be unusual or unexplained deaths among wild bird populations, please report these cases to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources by using the DNR’s Eyes in the Field app. Choose the “Diseased Wildlife” option among the selections for “Observation Forms.” You can also call the DNR Wildlife Disease Laboratory at 517-336-5030.
Avian flu first appeared in Michigan in 2022, when four infected flocks were diagnosed in Menominee County. This is the first case reported in our region. Nationwide, more than 168 million birds in the U.S. have been culled since early 2022 because of avian flu, causing a nationwide shortage of eggs, and a corresponding steep price increase
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