A Sanilac County poultry flock is currently under quarantine after investigation by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) found the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
The flock was made up of about 20 birds of mixed species, and was depopulated to prevent further spread of HPAI. The disease, which can be spread in several different ways between flocks of both domestic and wild birds, was detected earlier this year in several nearby counties, including Lapeer and Tuscola, with it last reported in two Lapeer flocks in early to mid-October.
Despite this being the first detection of it in Sanilac County, local bird owners should be vigilant and take preventative measures to protect their flocks from wild birds that may be carrying the virus. Authorities are reminding the community that while the public health risk associated with the illness is low for humans, poultry owners need to take precautions to keep their flocks safe, such as keeping equipment clean and keeping wild and domestic birds apart.
Domestic bird owners and caretakers should watch for multiple sudden deaths in the flock, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, or an increase in sick birds. If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
