
Health Experts Encourage Bird Flu Prevention Measures In Michigan
It's that time of the year where we are all bundling up and trying to stay warm. Some of us are trying to deal with the weather changes and allergies but all of us are dealing with the sick season. Many of us have heard this time of year being called the "Flu Season" as there are several different illnesses and bugs spreading around.

Once again, the flu season has come around and the Bird Flu is one of the strongest illnesses under the flu umbrella as highly pathogenic avian influenza is the worst in U.S. history and has started to spread to both dairy cattle and humans. While the current risk to humans is low, it's not zero and can get even the best of us.
As the Bird Flu continues to rain damage across the country and world, there are some preventative measures that have been thrown out there to try and mitigate the damage that can be done. Health officials have warned residents in Michigan to be aware of the Bird Flu and how they can prevent themselves and loved ones from contracting the virus.
Preventative Measures
Although many of these warnings may appear to be common sense, they are still good reminders for everyone. Below are a list of preventative measures and warnings about the Bird Flu:
- Avoid contact with wild birds,
- Report unusual bird deaths to the Department of Natural Resources,
- and wash your hands thoroughly after any contact with birds, wild animals or their environments.
- Monitor your pets. It’s best to try and keep them away from wild birds and their droppings to prevent potential transmission
- you should not consume any unpasteurized products
- Following basic safety guidelines for food
- Hunters should avoid any wild birds that are sick or found dead and wear disposable gloves when handling or cleaning game.
- Backyard poultry owners should make sure anyone tending to birds or their environments wears protective equipment, including masks, gloves, goggles and coveralls. Equipment, including clothing and vehicles, should be disinfected regularly.
If you notice any potential signs of illness in your flock, contact the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development immediately.
Symptoms
- Nasal discharge
- Coughing
- sneezing
- a notable drop in egg production.
Cases
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has confirmed 67 human cases of bird flu in the United States since 2022 and Michigan has reported 46 total outbreaks, most of which came in April and May of 2024.The first confirmed human death from the Bird Flu came from a woman in Louisiana who was above the age of 65 and had other underlying health conditions.
The current HPAI outbreak has affected more than 134 million poultry nationwide and 925 dairy herds, making it the worst bird flu outbreak in American history. While HPAI is almost always deadly in birds, the mortality rate is considered low in cows. Those who suspect avian flu in their domestic animals are asked to call MDARD immediately at 800.292.3939 during the day or 517.373.0440 after hours.
Your Guide To Bird Flu
Gallery Credit: Jaime Skelton
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