Dickinson-Iron District Health Department Advisory: Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza Confirmed in two Bald Eagles

KINGSFORD/IRON RIVER – The Dickinson-Iron District Health Department would like to inform the public that the first cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) have been confirmed in two Bald Eagles, one from Dickinson County and one from Iron County.

No human illness has been associated with this detection. The Dickinson-Iron District Health Department is sharing this information to alert people who own or work with birds, including poultry, or are exposed to wild birds to the possibility of infection and the need to take recommended precautions. HPAI in birds is not a food safety concern if poultry and eggs are handled and cooked properly.

Both wild and domestic birds, including chickens, can be infected with avian influenza viruses. In Michigan, HPAI has been detected in both backyard domestic birds and wild birds. For the latest detections in domestic birds, visit the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) at michigan.gov/birdflu.

For the latest information regarding detections in wild birds, please contact the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR).