LANSING, Michigan – The avian flu outbreak has reached Michigan, causing devastation in poultry and cattle populations in the state. State officials have issued an emergency order in response to the spreading disease, with millions of poultry at risk of being culled to prevent further transmission.
Reports of layoffs at Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch in Ionia County and the potential culling of millions of poultry highlight the significant impact the avian flu could have on Michigan. The ripple effects of the outbreak may extend to egg and meat prices, as well as affecting events like 4-H fairs.
Across the U.S., nearly 91 million poultry have been affected by the avian flu, with outbreaks reported in 48 states. Michigan is among the nine states where the avian flu has been detected in cattle herds. Additionally, over 9,000 cases have been found in wild birds across the country.
The recent outbreaks in Michigan have primarily been in backyard flocks, raising concerns about the spread of the disease. Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, emphasized the need for vigilance in light of the highly pathogenic avian influenza detected in dairy cattle.
While the avian flu poses a serious threat to poultry populations, health experts have reassured the public that the risk to humans remains low. Despite two cases of human infection in the U.S., the majority of cases reported worldwide have been fatal.
State and federal agencies have implemented stringent measures to prevent infected birds from entering the food chain, ensuring that properly cooked poultry remains safe to consume. However, the impact of the avian flu on egg prices and availability is a growing concern.
As Michigan works to contain the outbreak and protect its agricultural industry, officials are emphasizing the importance of biosecurity measures and monitoring the situation closely. With ongoing efforts to control the spread of the disease, the state remains vigilant in addressing both the public health and animal health implications of the avian flu outbreak.