State testing indicates that avian flu is currently common in wild bird populations across Michigan.
This is the result of sampling deceased wild birds in Lower Michigan that were thought to be infected with highly virulent avian influenza, or bird flu. The testing was carried out as part of the continuous disease surveillance program run by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.
The public’s primary awareness of the current avian flu pandemic is the rise in egg prices, which has led to supply chain problems. To counteract the hikes, lawmakers in Nevada recently decided to move legislation to temporarily suspend some laws pertaining to the selling and transportation of eggs.
Although there is little chance that humans will contract HPAI, officials warn that people can contract the virus, particularly if they come into contact with contaminated objects or animals. Precautions are recommended to prevent catching or transmitting HPAI, even though the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention believe there is little risk to the public’s health.
You should not touch a dead wild bird with your bare hands if you must remove it, but you should leave it alone if you find one. Wearing gloves and other personal protective equipment is advised, according to DNR Wildlife Health supervisor Mitch Marcus. Treating every wild bird as if it had an illness is the finest advice we can offer.
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the virus started spreading through every state in January 2022, affecting about 160 million backyard, commercial, hobby, and wild birds countrywide.
Over 300 dead wild birds have been found in five counties, including approximately 100 dead birds in Washtenaw County, over 80 dead Canada geese along the Shiawassee River near Owosso in Shiawassee County, 77 dead Canada geese and one dead mallard at the Fennville Farm Unit at Allegan State Game Area in Allegan County, over two dozen dead Canada geese at Williamston Lakes in Ingham County, and an additional 20 dead birds along the Grand River in Grand Ledge in Eaton County, according to a DNRpress release.
According to preliminary findings from samples supplied to the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostics Laboratory in East Lansing from the Allegan State Game Area, Shiawassee River, Williamston Lakes, and Washtenaw County sites, avian influenza is suspected.
Since samples must be sent to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Agriculture in Ames, Iowa, for final testing to confirm and identify any highly pathogenic strains of an avian influenza virus, the process of virus confirmation can take several months.
HPAI, which is thought to be extremely contagious, makes birds and mammals sick and occasionally kills them. The virus contaminates the environment through an infected bird’s nasal discharge or fecal droppings.
If six or more wild birds are dying off, anybody should report it to the DNR at Michigan.gov/EyesInTheField. Additionally, they can report sick-looking wild birds or other animals.
GET THE HEADLINES FOR THE MORNING.
Eliot Pierce is a dedicated writer for ChiefsFocus.com, covering local crime and finance news. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for storytelling, Eliot aims to provide his readers with clear and insightful analysis, helping them navigate the complexities of their financial lives while staying informed about important local events. His commitment to delivering accurate and engaging content makes him a valuable resource for the community.