The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) has reported that the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory has detected the presence of bird flu (also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza) in a backyard flock from Allegan County.
“This is the first case of bird flu in poultry from an Allegan County flock since 2022,” said a spokesperson for the Health Department.
Bird flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread via contact with infected animals or through equipment, clothing, and shoes of caretakers. Generally, cases increase with the migration of wild birds in the spring and fall.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said the public health risk associated with this disease remains low. People should continue to properly handle and cook all meat and eggs to the correct internal temperature and avoid consuming raw milk.
Farmers and owners of backyard flocks are advised to follow biosecurity measures to protect their flocks and livestock.
