Avian flu found in Newaygo Co. flock [Video]

NEWAYGO COUNTY, Mich. — The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) has been detected in a Newaygo County commercial poultry flock, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD).

This is the first time HPAI has been detected in Newaygo County, but the seventh time Michigan has seen an HPAI infection in a commercial poultry facility since 2022.

The facility is currently being quarantined, and poultry will be depopulated to prevent the spread of HPAI and ensure the safety of the commercial food supply.

“MDARD is addressing this outbreak from every angle, including working to help mitigate the economic impacts on local communities,” said MDARD Director Tim Boring. “We remain laser-focused on our mission to protect animal and public health.”  

HPAI is highly contagious and can be spread through wild birds, contact with infected poultry, equipment and on caretakers’ shoes and clothes. 

Farmers …