Michigan animal owners are being urged to stay alert as avian flu continues to spread in wild birds during fall migration. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says there have been no detections in domestic animals in Michigan since March 2025. However, the virus has been found in poultry in nearby states, so owners should take precautions to protect their animals.
Since the outbreak began in February 2022, wild birds have been the main way the virus spreads.
Last year, Michigan saw its worst outbreak, affecting dairy farms and poultry across 15 counties, with some farm workers also infected.
In 2025, there have been a few cases in poultry and backyard flocks, but Michigan’s dairy industry has been declared free of the virus after regular testing.
Avian flu is highly contagious and can spread through contact with wild birds, contaminated equipment, or clothing.
It can also affect humans, but the CDC says the risk is low. People should handle meat and eggs properly and avoid raw milk.
To keep animals safe, owners should prevent contact with wild birds, disinfect equipment, limit visitors, and report any sick or dead birds to authorities.
More information can be found at michigan.gov/mdard or on the US Department of Agriculture website at usda.gov