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 commercial poultry facility from Ottawa County. This is the first detection of the disease in a Michigan poultry flock since May 2024 when the state managed the largest outbreak of the disease, and the second case of the virus in a commercial poultry facility from Ottawa County since the disease was first detected in Michigan in 2022. Biosecurity measures are vital in helping ensure the health of Michigan´s domestic animals as well as the health of the general public.

"Slowing the spread of HPAI to protect human health is a top priority at MDARD," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "Implementing on-farm biosecurity and expanding our HPAI surveillance efforts are key strategies to prevent opportunities for the virus to infect domestic animal species and potentially spread and become a more concerning human threat."

"Since this disease is capable of affecting animals and the people who care for them, it is important for farm workers to continue using personal protective equipment to protect themselves and their loved ones," said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. "Preventing spread from animals to humans is vital if we want to limit the impact of this virus."

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 animals, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The affected premises is currently under quarantine, and the birds will be depopulated to prevent disease spread. These efforts also help to ensure the safety and integrity of the commercial food supply.

"As the weather remains cold and HPAI continues to circulate in wild bird populations, conditions are ideal for the virus to thrive and spread," said State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. "It is critical to prevent the introduction of disease by taking measures such as keeping domestic animals away from wild birds and cleaning and disinfecting equipment between uses."