MI Confirms First 2026 Case Of Bird Flu

OTTAWA COUNTY, MI — State health officials announced Wednesday they have found bird flu in a backyard flock in Ottawa County.

This is the first time the virus has been found in a Michigan domestic flock in 2026, and the 16th case in an Ottawa County poultry flock since the virus was first detected in the state in 2022, according to the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.

"While there has not been a detection of HPAI in a Michigan domestic flock since November 2025, the virus continues to circulate in wild birds, posing a risk to the state’s poultry farmers. As these birds move and migrate, their movement increases the risk of disease spread," State Veterinarian Nora Wineland said. "Bird owners must continue to take every preventative measure they can to protect their flocks from being exposed to wild birds and the germs they could be carrying. Keeping Michigan’s domestic birds healthy needs to remain a priority."

The bird flu is a highly contagious virus that can spread in various ways from flock to flock, including by wild birds, as well as through infected poultry, equipment and clothing and shoes of caretakers, according to state officials.

The public health risk associated with avian influenza is low, and no animals or products infected with the flu will enter the commercial food chain, according to state officials.

Officials urged bird owners to follow these steps to prevent bird flu:

• Prevent contact between domestic and wild birds by bringing them indoors or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Wash your hands before and after handling birds as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfect boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Do not share equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Clean and disinfect equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Use well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keep poultry feed secure to ensure there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.