A recent spike in bird flu cases in Michigan has raised concerns about the potential spread of the disease to dairy cattle. According to state officials, seven more outbreaks have been confirmed in commercial and backyard flocks, with the most recent one reported in Oakland County.
The H5N1 virus, also known as bird flu, has caused significant damage to poultry and dairy industries nationwide. Since its detection in Michigan in December 2024, the outbreak has spread to several states, including Louisiana, where a fatal case was confirmed on January 6, 2025.
Michigan State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is working closely with federal and state officials to monitor the situation. Dean Kimberly Dodd noted that researchers are studying the risks H5N1 poses to families, pets, and livestock. The virus can have significant impacts on milk production, posing economic losses for farmers and creating labor costs to manage outbreaks.
Cattle infected with H5N1 experience symptoms such as fever and sluggishness, followed by a decrease in milk production. However, most cows recover without treatment. Nevertheless, the drop in milk production and viral transmission create challenges for farmers to control the infection, leading to economic losses.
The outbreak has also raised concerns about the potential adaptation of the virus to mammals, including humans. To monitor this risk, all H5N1-positive samples are sent for genetic sequencing. Biosecurity measures, such as limiting visitors, disinfecting tools and equipment, and isolating sick animals, remain crucial in containing the virus.
As researchers continue to study the outbreak, experts emphasize the importance of vigilance in managing H5N1 moving forward.
Source: https://theconversation.com/bird-flu-flares-up-again-in-michigan-poultry-an-infectious-disease-expert-explains-the-risk-to-humans-chickens-cows-and-other-animals-233061