Fall Brings Bird Flu Risks: What Poultry Owners Need to Know

By Francine Czerniawski and Katie Ockert

As fall arrives, the beautiful colors of autumn also bring new risks for poultry producers and backyard bird owners. As wild birds complete their seasonal migration, there is an increased risk of avian influenza (bird flu), especially highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Since the outbreak of HPAI began in February 2022, a majority of cases have been linked to migratory wild birds. Waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, are natural carriers of the virus. These birds often show no signs of illness but can pass the virus to domestic poultry through shared water sources, contaminated feed, clothing or equipment.

In large commercial operations, where thousands of birds are housed closely together, the spread of bird flu can be rapid and devastating. Once detected in one of these operations, the entire flock must be humanely euthanized to contain the virus and protect other farms from potential infection. Your vigilance and quick action in reporting suspected cases can help contain the virus and protect other farms from potential infection.

Scope of the outbreak since 2022

According to surveillance data from the United States Department of Agriculture-Animal Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APIHS), since 2022, there have been more than 1,700 reported HPAI outbreaks in 685 counties, including all 50 states and Puerto Rico, affecting both commercial farms and backyard flocks. As of the latest data:

• In 2025, Michigan confirmed three outbreaks in commercial poultry flocks and eight in backyard flocks.
• In 2024, the state experienced its most extensive outbreak on record, with 31 dairy herds and 11 commercial poultry flocks impacted.

Risk to humans

Avian influenza is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be passed between and infect both animals and people. However, the risk to the general public remains very low. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 70 human cases have been reported in the U.S. to date, and the majority of those have been associated with direct exposure to infected animals on farms. This includes:

• 41 individuals linked to infected dairy cattle.
• 24 cases related to poultry farms or culling operations.

Symptoms of HPAI in humans can range from mild, flu-like illnesses to severe respiratory disease and, in rare cases, death. In the U.S., most reported human cases involved mild symptoms, particularly eye redness or conjunctivitis.

Importantly, properly cooked poultry, eggs and pasteurized milk are safe to consume, as the virus does not spread through cooked or pasteurized dairy products.

Protecting your birds through biosecurity

As fall migration peaks, poultry owners must take charge and strengthen their biosecurity practices. By doing so, you are actively protecting your flock from potential bird flu risks.

• Prevent or limit contact between wild birds and domestic birds:
  • Remove standing water.
  • Fence off natural ponds and vegetative areas around barns and pasture or free-ranging areas.
  • Reduce food sources for wild birds.
  • Cover animal carcasses.
  • Plug holes where wild birds can enter and exit coops.
• Wear clean clothing and footwear while caring for animals.
• Practice good personal hygiene by frequently washing hands with soap and water.
• Regularly clean and disinfect tools and equipment used on the farm.
• Limit farm visitors: if service professionals must come on the farm, identify a specific area for parking away from animal housing and provide visitors with disposable foot coverings.