LANSING — The avian flu outbreak across the U.S. has continued to spread in Michigan, impacting both poultry and cattle. This prompted state officials to issue an emergency order earlier this month to contain the disease.
Impact on Employment and Poultry Population
On Thursday, news broke of 400 layoffs at Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch in Ionia County. The company also indicated that 6.5 million poultry might be culled to halt the disease's spread in that county alone. This points to a potentially significant impact on Michigan's egg and meat supply and availability, affecting prices and local events like 4-H fairs.
Nationwide Spread and Statistics
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), nearly 91 million poultry in the U.S. are affected, with outbreaks reported in 48 states as of Friday. Additionally, nine states, including Michigan, have reported avian flu outbreaks in cattle, impacting 49 herds nationwide. Over 9,000 cases have also been detected in wild birds across all 50 states.
Recent Outbreaks in Michigan
Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), reported recent outbreaks in backyard flocks in Gratiot County on May 2 and in Ionia County on May 10. He noted that while Michigan has faced poultry impacts before, the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza in dairy cattle is new.
Is Avian Flu Dangerous to People?
The H5N1 avian flu can be deadly to humans, but it's rare. There have been two reported human cases of the avian flu in the U.S. so far, with mild symptoms reported. Globally, the World Health Organization recorded 889 human infections across 23 countries between 2023 and 2024, with over half of the cases being fatal. However, in the U.S., the risk remains low.
Counties Affected by Poultry Infections
Commercial poultry operations in Ionia, Gratiot, Newaygo, and Ottawa counties have reported infections, along with backyard flocks in Barry County. The avian flu is devastating to chicken flocks, causing 90% to 100% mortality within 48 hours. Infected flocks are typically culled to prevent further spread.
Counties Affected by Cattle Infections
Cattle infections have been reported in Ingham, Clinton, Gratiot, Allegan, and Isabella counties. Measures include isolating infected cattle and restricting farm access to control the disease.
State Response
On May 1, Boring issued an emergency order to curb the spread of infections. The order requires farms to designate biosecurity managers, establish secure perimeters, and enforce cleaning protocols at access points. Additionally, there are bans on exhibiting lactating cattle and poultry until no new cases are detected for 60 and 30 days, respectively.
Safety of Poultry and Dairy Products
According to the National Egg Council, avian flu is not a foodborne illness, meaning it cannot be contracted through properly cooked poultry. Similarly, pasteurization ensures that milk remains safe to consume. Proper food handling and cooking practices are recommended for optimal safety and quality.
Impact on Egg Prices and Availability
Egg prices in the U.S. have been rising and are expected to continue to do so due to the avian flu outbreak. In February, the average price of a dozen eggs was $2.99, down from last year's peak but still higher than pre-outbreak levels. The American Egg Board notes that restocking flocks can take several months, impacting supply and prices.
Impact on Milk Production
Michigan ranks first in the country in milk production per cow, with nearly 900 dairy farms. While the bird flu impacts dairy herds, pasteurization kills the virus, ensuring milk safety.
Effect on 4-H Fairs
Boring acknowledged the challenge for 4-H fairs, noting the ban on exhibiting affected poultry and lactating dairy cattle. However, other cattle species can still be showcased.
Looking Ahead
"This is a public and animal health issue," Boring said. "We are actively responding to new cases in both poultry and dairy farms in Michigan." The state continues to implement safeguards and monitor the situation closely to prevent further spread and protect public health.
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