By Andi Anderson
Recent reports from the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) reveal a concerning trend in the transmission of bird flu among cattle and poultry in Michigan.
According to MDARD Director Tim Boring, the pattern of spread is unusual, with human activities at the center of transmission pathways.
During a recent update to state lawmakers, MDARD reported that 25 dairy herds and nearly seven million birds have been exposed to the bird flu virus, with two farmworkers also testing positive.
This situation is unique to Michigan, largely due to the state's proactive testing measures. Unlike other states, Michigan has detected the virus in both dairy cows and humans, indicating a complex transmission dynamic.
The virus, identified as the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1, has also been found in 95 dairy cow herds across 12 U.S. states.
MDARD suggests that the virus could have spread from poultry to dairy farms through shared farmworkers and vehicles, a hypothesis supported by findings that affected individuals worked across multiple infected sites.Shared housing among workers might be contributing to the spread.
MDARD has also observed that infections could have occurred during the movement of cattle between herds and from contact with farm visitors and nearby wildlife.
Despite the challenges, the majority of cattle have shown resilience, recovering after symptoms like appetite loss and mild fever.
In response to the outbreak, state and federal agencies are enhancing biosecurity measures. An emergency order was issued mandating protective measures on farms, and efforts are underway to equip farmworkers with personal protective equipment.
MDARD is actively working to adapt new standards for managing cattle with bird flu, focusing on isolation practices to ensure the safety of the food supply.
As the bird flu continues to pose a significant risk to Michigan’s major agricultural sectors, MDARD is coordinating with the USDA to secure funding to support affected farms. Efforts include grants and compensation for farms participating in animal and public health research.
This financial assistance is crucial as the state seeks to mitigate the economic impact of the outbreak and protect public health.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-jacqueline-nix
Categories: Michigan, General, Livestock, Dairy Cattle, Rural Lifestyle