GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — Tests have confirmed the presence of highly pathogenic avian influenza in three other dairy herds in Michigan.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says the virus has been detected in additional herds in Clinton and Ionia counties and in the first case in Calhoun County. This brings the state total at 21.
Several federal agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration, the Centers for Disease and Prevention, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture, say the commercial milk supply is safe because of pasteurization and federal animal health requirements .
“If the animals are sick, they are not allowed to put this milk in the milk tank to sell it. That milk is pumped,” said Michigan State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland. “Animals are not quarantined. We are asking herds to restrict movement and only move animals if absolutely necessary.
HPAI is a highly contagious virus that can spread from infected wild birds to other animals through something exposed to the virus, such as equipment, food, or even keepers’ clothing. In rare cases, humans can contract the virus.
A farm worker in Texas tested positive for HPAI in April and a Michigan farm worker tested positive last week, the second and third human cases ever recorded in the United States. The Michigander experienced minor symptoms and recovered. They did not transmit the virus to anyone else despite potential exposures.
THE current HPAI epidemic, which broke out in February 2022, has now affected more than 92 million birds nationwide, making it the worst bird flu outbreak in American history. While HPAI is almost always fatal in birds, the mortality rate is considered low in cows.
Those who suspect avian flu in their pets are asked to immediately call MDARD at 800.292.3939 during the day or 517.373.0440 after hours.
News Source : www.woodtv.com
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