Small Flock Poultry Producers Can Learn About Bird Flu at MSU Extension Meeting

EAST LANSING, Mich.- ­Avian influenza, also called bird flu, has not yet reached the United States, but as it spreads across Europe and Asia, health experts are predicting that it could reach the U.S. by the end of 2006. The H5N1 strain of the virus can be transmitted from bird to bird and can spread to domesticated poultry when wild birds come into contact with outdoor flocks.

To help Southwest Michigan’s small-flock poultry owners learn to recognize the symptoms of avian influenza and protect their flocks, Michigan State University (MSU) Extension is sponsoring a free educational program from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm Thursday, April 6th at the Dowagiac Conservation Club at 54551 M-51 North near Dowagiac, MI 49047.

Participants will learn how to protect themselves, their flocks and their families from contracting bird flu and what to do if they suspect their birds are infected. The program will also include information about the strategies that state and federal agencies plan to implement to protect humans and birds from avian influenza.

Though transmission of the flu from bird to human is difficult, it can occur. Thousands of birds and several humans have contracted the disease in other countries. Human health experts are especially concerned that the virus will mutate and become more easily transmissible to humans. “We want to share all of the facts that we know about this virus so that those folks who keep a few birds to show or as part of a small business can find out what they need to know,” says Paul Wylie, MSU Extension agriculture and natural resources educator based in Allegan. “We really want to keep the lines of communication with small flock owners open so that we can disseminate important information and answer their questions.”

No registration is required for this program. For more information, contact the Cass County MSU Extension office by calling 269-445-4438.

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MSU Extension is an Affirmative-Action Equal-Opportunity Institution. Michigan State University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, or family status.

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