LANSING, MICH. – The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) confirmed earlier this week that the statewide ban on poultry and waterfowl exhibitions was lifted.

The measure was intended to stop the possible spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), which continues to move through the United States.

According to the latest data on APHIS on June 15, more than 40 million birds have been affected by the virus. 

Michigan banned poultry and waterfowl exhibitions on May 10. MDARD confirmed an outbreak of HPAI in a commercial flock that week but has not seen another case in domestic birds.

“Even though the state has been able to reach this incredibly important benchmark, this does not mean the virus has left Michigan,” said Nore Wineland, DVM, Michigan state veterinarian. “HPAI continues to be detected in wild birds throughout the state, which is not unexpected as the virus is known to be carried by wild birds. Since the virus is still present in the environment, it is still crucial for owners and caretakers of domestic birds to take every step possible to protect their flocks.”

MDARD said it will continue to vigilantly monitor national HPAI trends and respond to reports of sick or dead domestic birds in Michigan.