There’s good news for those who love looking at the poultry and waterfowl exhibits at county fairs. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has lifted the statewide temporary ban that was imposed to limit the risk of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The goal of going thirty days without a new breakout of the virus has been met, so the ban has been lifted, but that does not mean that the highly contagious virus is completely gone.
State Veterinarian Dr. Nora Wineland said, “Even though the state has been able to reach this incredibly important benchmark, this does not mean the virus has left Michigan. HPAI continues to be detected in wild birds throughout the state, which is not unexpected as the virus is known to be carried by wild birds. Since the virus is still present in the environment, it is still crucial for owners and caretakers of domestic birds to take every step possible to protect their flocks.”
There isn’t believed to be a risk to humans from bird flu, but poultry and egg products should always be fully cooked and precautions should be taken when dealing with live birds, including poultry and waterfowl.
Reporting for WGRT – Jennie McClelland
