LANSING, Mich. — While the detections of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in Michigan’s domestic animals have decreased from the numbers experienced this spring, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) encourages animal owners to remain vigilant and take preventative measures as wild birds complete their fall migration, causing the virus to more actively circulate.

“Even though the rate of HPAI detections have decreased across Michigan and the United States, this does not mean the threat posed by the virus is gone. The disease continues to circulate in wild birds and fall migration can cause the virus to spread again,” said State Veterinarian Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM. “It is just as important now as it was earlier this year for owners to take measures to protect their poultry and dairy cattle from this virus. Keeping Michigan’s domestic animals healthy remains a team effort.”

HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can be spread in various ways from animal to animal, including through wild birds, contact with infected animals, by equipment, and on the clothing and shoes of caretakers. The disease is also zoonotic, meaning it can affect both animals and people.

Fortunately, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the public health risk associated with this disease remains low. No animals or animal products infected with HPAI will enter the commercial food chain. Also, people should properly handle and cook all meat and eggs and avoid consuming raw milk.

In 2024, Michigan experienced the largest outbreak of HPAI in the state’s history. Beginning with a detection in a dairy herd in late March, the virus has impacted 29 dairies, seven commercial poultry flocks, and one backyard poultry flock across 13 Michigan counties this year. There were also two cases of the disease in Michigan farm workers who were working with infected dairy cattle.

Even though Michigan detected only five cases of HPAI in dairy cattle and no cases in domestic poultry since early June, this trend reflects the pattern seen over the past few years with this virus—namely, cases are noted early in the year when the spring migration of wild birds starts, there is a lull throughout the summer months, and cases increase in the fall when wild birds migrate once again.

Regardless of the species, biosecurity remains the best tool available to combat HPAI. On May 1,  Director Boring issued the Determination of Extraordinary Emergency HPAI Risk Reduction and Response Order (HRRRO), which is still in effect. Along with other protocols, the order requires all Michigan dairy and poultry operations to adopt enhanced biosecurity measures, reducing the risk of introducing HPAI on to farms.

In Michigan, HPAI is now reportable in all species of animals. If avian influenza is suspected, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).

Additional resources can also be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu.