Frequently Asked Questions

HPAI is a highly contagious virus in birds and poultry that can be spread directly by infected wild birds or animals or indirectly through any item that has been exposed to the virus, such as equipment, feed, or the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The virus has been detected in various species of mammals, including Michigan dairy cattle.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development continues to work with state and federal partners, veterinarians, Michigan State University Extension, MSU’s Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory and industry stakeholders to provide information to poultry farmers and backyard flock owners about the current disease situation, importance of following (and even increasing) their biosecurity measures, and what signs to look for in their birds.

MDARD continues to take swift action in response to this disease and is closely monitoring and responding to reports of sick domestic birds and HPAI throughout the state.

HPAI viruses cause severe illness in chickens and turkeys and can wipe out entire flocks in days. Potential symptoms include: sudden death, drop in egg production, nasal discharge, coughing, sneezing, and diarrhea. Additional symptoms and information may be found on USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service's webpage.

HPAI is highly contagious and can be carried by migratory wild birds, geese, ducks and other fowl.  

• This disease can be spread by direct contact (bird-to-bird) by exposure to:  
  • Saliva 
  • Mucous 
  • Feces from infected birds
• It can also be spread through indirect contact through contaminated items such as:  
  • Equipment 
  •  Feed 
  • Clothing and shoes of animal caretakers 
  • Rodents and pests 
• Flock owners should observe their birds for signs of disease, if sick birds are present care should be taken to not expose other animals to disease.  

No. Poultry and eggs that are properly prepared and cooked are safe to eat. Proper food safety practices are important every day. In addition to proper processing, proper handling and cooking of poultry provides protection from viruses and bacteria, including avian influenza. The chance of infected poultry or eggs entering the food chain is extremely low because of the rapid onset of symptoms in poultry as well as the safeguards USDA has in place, which include testing of flocks, and Federal inspection programs.

• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.

Unlike HPAI in birds which is typically fatal, little to no mortality has been reported among dairy cattle with most animals recovering. The virus may cause a decreased milk supply along with other mild symptoms.

Yes. Milk Products are pasteurized before entering the market. There is no concern about the safety of the commercial milk supply, or that this circumstance poses a risk to consumer health. Pasteurization has continuously proven to inactivate bacteria and viruses, like influenza, in milk. Raw milk is not recommended to be consumed, as those who consume raw milk and/or milk products are at risk for a variety of illnesses.