LANSING, Mich. (WLNS) — An Ottawa County poultry facility is the newest Michigan agricultural operation confirmed with an outbreak of extremely pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).
The Michigan Division of Agriculture introduced the findings Monday, Dec. 16.
The illness was final confirmed in Michigan in Might of this yr. It was first detected in Michigan in 2022.
This colorized electron microscope picture launched by the Nationwide Institute of Allergy and Infectious Ailments on March 26, 2024, exhibits avian influenza A H5N1 virus particles (yellow), grown in Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) epithelial cells (blue). (CDC/NIAID by way of AP)
MDARD explains HPAI this fashion:
HPAI is a extremely contagious virus that may be unfold in numerous methods from flock to flock, together with by wild birds, by way of contact with contaminated animals, by tools, and on the clothes and sneakers of caretakers. The affected premises is at present below quarantine, and the birds will probably be depopulated to stop illness unfold. These efforts additionally assist to make sure the security and integrity of the industrial meals provide.
MDARD Information Launch, Dec. 16, 2024
MDARD and different state officers are encouraging Michigan’s agricultural staff to make use of primary security measures to stop an infection by HPAI.
“Since this disease is capable of affecting animals and the people who care for them, it is important for farm workers to continue using personal protective equipment to protect themselves and their loved ones,” mentioned Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical govt, within the information launch. “Preventing spread from animals to humans is vital if we want to limit the impact of this virus.”
Officers additionally warned the winter months present a possibility for the virus to unfold.
“As the weather remains cold and HPAI continues to circulate in wild bird populations, conditions are ideal for the virus to thrive and spread,” mentioned State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland, DVM, MS, DACVPM, within the information launch. “It is critical to prevent the introduction of disease by taking measures such as keeping domestic animals away from wild birds and cleaning and disinfecting equipment between uses.”
For extra info on HPAI detections in Michigan, go to the Michigan Division of Agriculture and Rural Improvement web site.
