Additional Coverage:
New York City and three surrounding counties have temporarily closed live poultry markets after several cases of bird flu were discovered. Governor Kathy Hochul announced the closure Friday, following the discovery of seven infected birds at markets in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.
The precautionary measure also affects markets in Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties. The shutdown is expected to last until February 14th.
Before reopening, markets must be disinfected and pass a state health inspection.
While bird flu has been detected in both animals and humans nationwide, health officials maintain the risk to the public remains low. New York City’s acting health commissioner, Dr. Michelle Morse, stated the city is working with state officials to ensure market staff are informed and receive necessary treatment if they develop symptoms.
The order impacts roughly 80 markets in the New York City area. These markets are interconnected, sharing distributors and supply chains. The state has already confirmed bird flu cases in commercial and backyard flocks, as well as wild birds.
Last week, Governor Hochul announced efforts to prevent bird flu’s spread and improve early detection, particularly on farms. This followed a confirmed case in Suffolk County and an outbreak at Long Island’s last commercial duck farm in January, which resulted in the culling of over 100,000 ducks.
Dead wild birds have also been found north of New York City, some confirmed with bird flu. Investigations are ongoing.
Bird flu, or avian influenza, is mainly spread among birds. It comes in two forms: low pathogenic (LPAI) and highly pathogenic (HPAI).
LPAI usually affects wild birds and causes mild or no illness. HPAI, primarily found in domestic poultry, can cause severe disease and high mortality rates.
The bird flu outbreak has already cost hundreds of millions of dollars and increased the price of poultry and eggs. Millions of birds have been culled to contain the virus.