The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development director signed a “Determination of Extraordinary Emergency Risk Reduction Order” to further protect poultry and livestock producers from the ongoing threat of highly pathogenic avian influenza.
The order goes into effect Wednesday May 8th and applies to all dairy and commercial poultry facilities statewide.
Director Tim Boring called the outbreak a "top priority for all who work in agriculture" and stressed the need for "aggressive action to protect animal and public health."
The order requires all dairy farms and poultry operations to follow increased safety measures including designating a biosecurity manager, establishing disinfecting practices, and maintaining records of who enters and exits secure areas.
It also prohibits exhibitions of poultry statewide including at 4H events and county fairs.
Health officials say recent testing shows pasteurized milk remains safe to drink, there are no public health concerns about the food supply chain, and the risk of the virus to humans remains low.
