By Andi Anderson
Michigan has reported seven new cases of the H5N1 avian flu since December 16, with the initial detection at a poultry facility in Ottawa County. The virus, which circulates in wild birds, can cause illnesses ranging from low to highly pathogenic in poultry.
Dr. Kimberly Dodd, dean of Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine, noted that the current outbreak is unusual because it continued through winter and spread across the country, contrary to the typical seasonal drop-off. This outbreak has impacted over 340,000 birds in Michigan alone.
The virus has extended its reach beyond poultry, infecting wild mammals such as scavengers and marine mammals near infected waterfowl. Alarmingly, Michigan also became the first U.S. state to report avian flu in dairy cattle, with 30 herds affected since March 2024. Dr. Dodd explained that barn cats on farms were infected after consuming raw milk contaminated with the virus.
"We believe these barn cats are exposed through raw milk, which contains high virus levels," Dr. Dodd stated, emphasizing the need for strict biosecurity measures on farms.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified 67 human cases of avian flu in the U.S., including one fatality in Louisiana. Despite this, the CDC assesses the overall health risk to the public as low.
This outbreak underscores the importance of vigilance in monitoring and controlling the virus in poultry, livestock, and wildlife. Farmers and veterinarians are urged to enhance biosecurity practices to prevent further spread.
As the situation develops, collaboration between farmers, health officials, and researchers remains critical in managing the ongoing challenges posed by avian flu.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-wikoski
Categories: Michigan, Livestock, Poultry