FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — Eleven adults in Oakland County in Michigan are being monitored after direct contact with a flock of poultry infected with bird flu, according to the county's health division.
The flock was located at the Hess-Hathaway Park, which features a playground, farm animals, trails and sports, such as baseball and volleyball, in Waterford Township.
Early in 2024, two Michigan farm workers were diagnosed with H5N1 and recovered after suffering from mild symptoms.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development and the Michigan State University Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory announced the detection of highly pathogenic avian influenza in the flock from Oakland County on Wednesday.
The Oakland County Health Division noted Friday that one of the 11 people exhibited some flu-like symptoms. That person's influenza test has been collected and results from the state lab are pending. The 11 people will be monitored for 10 days.
“The risk of contracting bird flu is very low for the general public, but it's important to be aware of the disease in the community,” said Leigh-Anne Stafford, director of health and human services in Oakland County. “Protect yourself and prevent bird flu by avoiding direct contact with sick or dead birds and wash your hands thoroughly if you come into contact with them.”
“Until further notice, portions of the farm will be closed to protect our animals, staff and visitors,” said Supervisor Anthony Barolotta of Waterford Township. “However, the rest of Hess-Hathaway Park remains open for community enjoyment.”
Earlier in the day, the Infectious Diseases Society of America held a news briefing on H5N1.
“The H1 virus has been hopping around the world,” said Dr. Julio Figueroa of LSU Health New Orleans.
Dr. Figueroa characterized the nationwide outbreak as unprecedented as it involves wild animals, domesticated animals, and humans. He said the coordination of wildlife agencies, agricultural organizations, and human health groups has been challenging.
Another challenge is that many of those at most risk of contracting the virus, which is fatal to birds and jumped to dairy cows in 2024 for the first time, are undocumented workers who might eschew the spotlight and may not speak English.
First Published January 10, 2025, 8:21 p.m.
