YPSILANTI (WWJ) - Health officials in Metro Detroit are on alert after a highly pathogenic strain of Avian Flu (HPAI) was identified in birds from Washtenaw County, health officials said on Thursday.
So far, the health department said this type of bird flu, identified as H5N1, is not known to infect humans and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has given the virus a low-risk status for infecting humans, but wild and domesticated birds, including poultry, are highly susceptible.
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Officials put the alert out to warn keepers of flocks and those who handle or work with birds of possible infection and urged precautious be put in place.
"Avian flu viruses spread easily among birds and – while rare –can spread from birds to people," the health department said. "Spread of avian flu viruses from a bird to a person mainly happens through droplets, the same way that human flu viruses spread."
If someone suspects they have been exposed, the health department asked individuals to watch for flu-like symptoms for 10 days after coming into contact with an infected bird.
Symptoms vary, but include fever, chills, muscle pains, sore throat, runny nose, headache and fatigue.
"Similar to seasonal influenza illness in humans, avian influenza viruses can be treated using influenza antiviral drugs," health officials said. "These medications work better the sooner they are given. If you suspect you may be ill, please contact your health care or urgent care provider."
Officials said there is no concern of people contracting the disease through properly cooked poultry.
Residents who keep birds should watch for symptoms within their flock and be mindful that not all infected birds show the routine signs of illness.
Sudden death is a tell-tale sign of the disease, but birds can experience neurological signs; difficulty walking; lack of appetite, energy or vocalization; significant drop in egg production; swollen combs, wattles, legs or head; diarrhea; or sneezing, coughing or nasal discharge.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development compiled a list of steps poultry owners can take to cut down trasmission of HPAI:
• Minimize the number of people coming in contact with birds
• iIolate birds from wild birds whenever possible
• Disinfect hands and clothing after coming in contact with poultry
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DNR officials said owners who notice the deaths of three or more free-roaming birds in their flock should make a report through health officials. Suspected cases can be made through the Eyes in the Field app or by calling 517-336-5030.
For domestic poultry owners dealing with widespread illness and death, please contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.
More information can be found at Michigan.gov/BirdFlu and through the Washtenaw County Health Department.
