(COLDWATER) - The Branch-Hillsdale-St. Joseph Community Health Agency is encouraging citizens to protect their local flocks from bird flu.
In the first twelve days of November, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported eight cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in commercial and backyard poultry flocks. Five of them are in Ottawa County, one in Allegan County, one in Monroe County, and one in St. Clair County.
Although none have been identified in CHA jurisdiction, poultry owners are reminded to protect their domestic flocks from HPAI.
CHA Health Officer Rebecca Burns says they are sharing this information with their residents to remind them of the steps they can take to reduce the transmission risk for their chickens, ducks and turkeys. Burns says removing bird feeders and bird baths from the yard during the fall migration period is a good first step.
Additionally, poultry owners should take the following measures to protect their flocks: Preventing contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed; Washing your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops; Disinfecting boots and other gear when moving between coops; Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms; Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
Also; Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds; and Keep poultry feed secure so there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.
Signs and Symptoms of HPAI include: Multiple sudden deaths in the flock; Drop in egg production; Significant decrease in water consumption; Diarrhea; and Sneezing, or coughing.
If avian influenza is suspected in domestic birds, contact MDARD immediately by calling 800-292-3939 during the day and 517-373-0440 after normal business hours.