“Back>yard poultry owners should be aware birds can carry germs impacting both animal and human health, including Salmonella and highly pathogenic avian influenza,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, MDHHS chief medical executive. “While the risk to the public remains low with avian influenza, simple steps like washing your hands after handling birds or after cleaning the coops are essential to reducing the spread of disease and keeping germs out of your household. Taking these precautions protects both animal and family health.”
Another disease to protect against is Salmonella, which is a bacteria found in the droppings of poultry that can cause illness in people.
In 2024, the CDC reported outbreaks of Salmonella linked to backyard poultry, involving 470 people across 48 states. Even if birds look healthy and clean, they can still be carrying the Salmonella bacteria; and measures need to be taken to prevent illness.
No matter the type of germ, species of poultry, or size of your flock, following these simple steps are fundamental to protecting your health and the health of your birds:
• Preventing contact between domestic poultry and wild birds by bringing poultry indoors to a barn/coop or ensuring their outdoor area is fully enclosed.
• Washing your hands before and after handling birds and/or their eggs as well as when moving between different coops.
• Disinfecting boots and other gear when moving between coops.
• Not sharing equipment or other supplies between coops or other farms.
• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment and other supplies between uses. If it cannot be disinfected, discard it.
• Using well or municipal water as drinking water for birds.
• Keeping poultry feed secure so there is no contact between the feed/feed ingredients and wild birds or rodents.
• Not touching birds to your face.
• Keeping poultry away from areas where food or drink is prepared, served, or stored.
• Contacting your veterinarian if there are ever any questions related to the health of your animals.
• Monitoring your flock for unusual deaths, a drop in egg production, a significant decrease in water consumption, or an increase in sick birds.
o If avian influenza is suspected, contact MDARD immediately at 800-292-3939 (daytime) or 517-373-0440 (after-hours).
Source : michigan.gov