The highly pathogenic avian flu has continued to spread in Michigan, with cases now confirmed in commercial dairy farms in Ionia, Isabella, and Ottawa counties. This comes after the initial case of bird flu was detected in a Montcalm County farm in late March.
The impact of the virus has been significant, with an egg farm in Ionia County reporting infections that have affected a staggering 4 million birds. Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Tim Boring has expressed concern over the spread of the virus and has urged farmers to remain vigilant.
The virus, which has previously affected dairy cows in other states, is believed to be linked to wild birds and human contact with infected cattle. Michigan officials are now investigating how the virus spread to additional dairy farms and the state’s largest egg producer.
Infected animals in dairy herds are required to have their milk diverted or destroyed, although pasteurization effectively eliminates viruses in milk. The avian flu is particularly deadly for chickens, with a high mortality rate leading to the depopulation of infected flocks. However, infected cattle are expected to recover within a week to 10 days and do not need to be depopulated.
Michigan is now emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures on farms to prevent the spread of the virus through wildlife, equipment, and clothing. Despite the concerning situation, the risk of humans getting sick from the avian flu is low, and infected birds will not enter the food chain.
As the state continues to combat the spread of the avian flu in dairy farms, farmers and officials are working together to contain the virus and protect both Michigan’s agricultural industry and public health. Stay tuned for further updates on this evolving situation on ‘World News Live’.
“Prone to fits of apathy. Devoted music geek. Troublemaker. Typical analyst. Alcohol practitioner. Food junkie. Passionate tv fan. Web expert.”