(The Center Square) – Michigan farms affected by the rise in bird flu cases are now eligible for financial assistance but at a cost.
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has determined 20 Michigan dairy farms are eligible for up to $28,000 each, so long as they assist in researching the H5N1 avian influenza virus. Since first detected in March, 24 cow herds have been infected, alongside three Michigan farmers, making it the state with the highest cattle and human cases in the country.
“The main reason we’re detecting more infection is because we’re doing very good surveillance,” said Dr. Arnold Monto, co-director of the Michigan Center for Respiratory Virus Research and Response. “Other states need to do the same. It’s being missed.”
The virus first came to Michigan from Texas, after an infected herd was transported cross country. On May 1, MDARD Director Tim Boring signed a “Determination of Extraordinary Emergency,” which enhances the federal order issued April 24. Since arriving in the state earlier this year, the virus has killed more than 6 million birds, primarily chickens and turkeys. The flu is then transferred to cattle through the water supply.
“We understand our dairy farmers are facing unprecedented challenges, and this action is an important step toward supporting them during this emergency,” Boring said.
The emergency mandate requires all Michigan dairy and poultry farms to have a “biosecurity manager,” safety perimeters, and disinfection practices. No poultry or lactating cows are allowed to attend exhibitions until there have been no new cases for 30 to 60 days.
While the federal government also offers financial assistance for farms affected by bird flu, the Michigan aid is described as “immediate.” Currently, three U.S. Department of Agriculture emergency response teams are assisting Michigan farms, while an additional epidemiology team is looking to trace the origin of the virus.
