Bird Flu Concerns in Michigan: What You Need to Know
If you’re wandering through Michigan and happen upon a deceased wild bird, it’s best to steer clear. This advice comes from the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), following preliminary results pointing to the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza, commonly known as bird flu, in waterfowl across several locations in the lower part of the state. For more information, visit the official website.
Avian influenza, primarily impacting poultry like chickens and turkeys, has been causing sickness and fatalities among birds and mammals. The state has witnessed a series of die-offs in wild birds and mammals since late February 2022, as reported by the Michigan Public Radio. The responsible virus, H5N1, has been a concern in the U.S. since 2022, although it was first identified in China in 1996. It spreads via fecal matter or nasal discharge from infected birds.
In Michigan, the virus is most commonly found in waterfowl, raptors, and scavengers, with the disease considered endemic throughout the region. The affected mammals include elephant seals, cows, and cats, as highlighted by multiple reports, such as those on elephant seals and cows. For more on how to protect your pets, refer to this guide on cats.
Despite these alarming reports, wildlife biologist Kaitlyn Barnes assures that the overall populations of ducks, geese, and swans in Michigan are not on the brink of decline, though localized decreases might occur. “The populations immediately near the sites with positive test results could see a decline, but there should not be impacts to the statewide population,” Barnes mentioned in a statement.
Human cases are relatively rare, with 68 confirmed instances and one fatality in the U.S., including two in Michigan, both linked to dairy farm workers. The current health risk to the public remains low, as per the CDC.
Tracking and Controlling the Spread
Throughout January and February, the DNR collected samples from deceased wild birds across several counties. Preliminary analysis at the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory suggested bird flu as the likely cause of death, particularly in Canadian geese. Positive test results must be confirmed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Veterinary Services Laboratory, which can be time-consuming.
Monitoring efforts by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the DNR include responding to reports of sick domestic birds and examining wildlife impacts. Wildlife health supervisor Mitch Marcus highlighted the challenge of tracking the disease, as some wild birds can carry the virus without showing symptoms. “The unique thing about avian influenza virus is that particularly wild birds can be carriers of the disease,” he explained to Michigan Public Radio.
Confirmed cases in wildlife have been reported in Jackson, Kalamazoo, Mackinac, Roscommon, St. Joseph, and Washtenaw counties. However, other counties may still harbor unreported outbreaks. For domestic animals, active responses are ongoing across multiple counties, aiming to lift quarantines or restore unaffected status in affected herds and flocks. For updates, visit the MDARD website.
Protective Measures for Residents
The DNR advises residents to avoid contact with dead wild birds, as they can still spread the virus. Should removal be necessary, protective gear like gloves and masks is recommended. Dead birds that could pose a risk should be double-bagged and disposed of properly. Marcus emphasized the importance of protecting domestic animals and oneself when handling potentially infected wildlife.
To report die-offs of six or more wild birds or sick wildlife, residents can use the DNR’s reporting website. Additionally, state agencies recommend flu vaccinations to safeguard against avian influenza and other flu viruses. For more guidance, check out the state’s emerging diseases page.
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