Bird Flu Detected at Michigan's Top Egg Producer Amid Ongoing Outbreak

Latest on Bird Flu outbreak at Michigan's top egg producer. Stay informed on measures and impacts. Read more for coverage and updates.

The highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), also known as bird flu, has been detected in poultry at Herbruck’s, Michigan’s top egg producer. The infected flock was found at the company’s Green Meadow Organics facility in Ionia County, marking the fourth case of avian influenza in a commercial facility in Michigan since the disease was first detected in the state in 2022. The virus is highly deadly for chickens, with a mortality rate of 90% to 100%, sometimes within 48 hours of infection.

Potential Impact on Egg Prices and Industry Response

Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch CEO Greg Herbruck stated that the company veterinarian noticed sick birds at the facility over the weekend, and lab results confirmed the presence of HPAI. The company quickly implemented protocols to protect the rest of their flocks and contain the outbreak. In the case of an outbreak, farmers are required to “depopulate” or kill the infected birds to prevent the disease from spreading further.

The outbreak at Herbruck’s could potentially impact egg prices, as it may take several months for the facility to be disinfected and back to producing eggs at full capacity. Ernie Birchmeier, a senior industry relations specialist for the Michigan Farm Bureau, noted that consumers might see an increase in egg prices due to the bird flu affecting commercial farms across the country.

As of Wednesday, bird flu had been detected in three commercial flocks and seven backyard flocks across the U.S. in a 30-day period, affecting 3.85 million birds. The virus has also recently been found in cattle in Montcalm County, Michigan, with the source of the spread traced to infected cattle from Texas.

Public Health Concerns and Ongoing Research

The recent bird flu infection in a dairy worker in Texas has public health officials on high alert, although experts say the virus hasn’t become more contagious among cows or people. Samples taken from the patient showed that the virus has not changed in ways that would make it easy to spread from human to human, and currently available vaccines and medicines remain effective against it.

Scientists are closely monitoring the current outbreak, as the H5N1 strain has affected many new wild bird species and persisted longer than previous outbreaks. The virus has also appeared more frequently in mammals, both in the wild and on farms, occasionally leading to waves of infections and deaths.

While the risk to the public remains low, researchers are working to understand how the virus spreads among mammals and the potential for mutations that could make it more easily transmissible. Ongoing preparation for the possibility of more human cases includes manufacturing limited quantities of vaccines and monitoring farm workers, who are often the first to evidence transmission events.

Vigilance and Collaboration: Key to Managing the Outbreak

The outbreak of HPAI at Herbruck’s Poultry Ranch in Michigan reminds of the ongoing threat posed by the virus to the poultry industry and the potential impact on egg prices. As the weather remains cool and wild birds continue their migration, conditions are ideal for the virus to thrive and spread.

Keeping HPAI out of Michigan’s domestic animals remains a team effort and a top priority for all involved. Continued vigilance, strict biosecurity measures, and ongoing research will be essential in managing the current outbreak and preventing future ones, while also safeguarding public health.