Avian Flu

Michigan's first cases of avian flu and West Nile virus were confirmed in early June. Chronic wasting disease was discovered in free-ranging deer in Michigan at the end of May. The Michigan DNR and others are working to stop the spread of all three.

Yesterday, the Michigan DNR announced the state’s first confirmed cases of avian influenza H5N2. The disease was found in free-ranging Canada geese in Macomb County. Highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) can infect both free-ranging and domestic poultry such as chickens, turkeys, quail and geese. No human HPAI infections have been detected in the United States.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development today announced the decision to cancel all 2015 poultry and waterfowl exhibitions in Michigan. The decision was made to prevent birds from different locations from spreading avian influenza. The ban includes, but is not limited to shows, exhibitions, swap meets, petting zoos at fairs, game bird and waterfowl fair displays, and Miracle of