Fighting avian flu in dairy herds

By Andi Anderson

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) recently announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a dairy herd from Clinton County.

This latest case brings the total number of affected dairy herds in Michigan to 30. Initial testing was conducted by the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, with samples sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratories for further confirmation.

In response to the outbreak, MDARD Director Tim Boring emphasized the importance of biosecurity as the primary defense against HPAI. On May 1, 2024, Director Boring issued the Determination of Extraordinary Emergency HPAI Risk Reduction and Response Order (HRRRO), requiring all dairy operations in Michigan to adopt enhanced biosecurity protocols.

These measures aim to reduce the risk of the virus spreading to additional farms. The order also restricts the exhibition of lactating dairy cattle and those within two months of pregnancy until no new cases have been reported for at least 60 consecutive days. In addition, cattle from infected farms are prohibited from being exhibited until further notice.

Farmers are urged to follow these key biosecurity steps to protect their herds:

• Limit animal movement: Avoid bringing in or returning animals from herds with an unknown or questionable health status.
• Isolate new or returning animals: Keep these animals separate from the main herd to monitor for signs of illness.
• Monitor health daily: Regularly check your herd’s health and consult a veterinarian if there are any concerns.
• Handle sick animals last: Care for healthy animals first, using separate equipment for sick animals.
• Clean and disinfect: Ensure clothing, footwear, and equipment used around sick animals are cleaned and disinfected before being used elsewhere. Use EPA-registered disinfectants effective against avian influenza.
• Avoid sharing tools or equipment: Do not share trailers, tools, or equipment between farms without proper cleaning.
• Limit visitors: Restrict non-essential visitors, especially those who have recently been on other farms, such as poultry operations.
• Provide protective measures: Offer hand-washing stations, gloves, and clean footwear to anyone entering the farm.

MDARD continues to collaborate with veterinarians and federal and state partners to monitor animal health, investigate potential cases, and respond to outbreaks. The department is also providing personal protective equipment to affected farms as part of the disease response efforts.

Photo Credit: gettyimages-ahavelaar