05/10/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/10/2024 12:21
Today, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) Director Tim Boring announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in dairy herds in Allegan, Clinton, Gratiot, Ingham counties and an additional herd in Isabella. The Michigan State University Veterinary Services Laboratories confirmed these detections. Samples have been sent to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) National Veterinary Services Laboratory for additional confirmatory testing.
Regardless of species, biosecurity remains the best tool available to combat HPAI. On May 1, 2024, Director Boring issued the "Determination of Extraordinary Emergency HPAI Risk Reduction and Response" Order. In addition to other protocols, the order requires all dairy operations in Michigan to adopt enhanced biosecurity measures, collectively reducing the risk of introducing this virus on to farms. On May 3, 2024, additional guidance was issued to help producers enact these requirements, which went into effect on May 8, 2024.
In addition to these requirements, following a few key steps can also be fundamental to protecting the health and vitality of Michigan's dairy cattle:
As part of the disease response, MDARD is working with the herd's veterinarian to monitor the health of the animals and conduct trace investigations. MDARD continues diligently working with local, state, and federal partners to quickly respond to reports of HPAI to mitigate the spread of the disease and provide outreach.
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