In response to a recent avian influenza outbreak, New York State has temporarily closed all live poultry markets in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County.
Seven cases of bird flu were detected during routine inspections in the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the closures as a precautionary measure to prevent the virus from spreading further.
The affected markets are required to depopulate infected flocks, thoroughly clean and disinfect their facilities, and remain closed for a minimum of five days post-cleaning.
They will only be permitted to reopen after passing a cleaning and disinfection inspection by the Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Governor Hochul emphasized that there is no immediate public health threat, stating, “Let me be clear: There is no public health threat.”
State health officials have confirmed that no human cases have been reported in New York, and the strain does not easily transmit to humans.
The outbreak has also impacted local zoos. The Wildlife Conservation Society reported that three ducks at the Queens Zoo died from the virus, and tests are pending for several birds at the Bronx Zoo.
As a precaution, vulnerable bird species have been relocated to protected areas within the parks.
The zoos remain open to the public, as the risk of human infection is considered low.
Nationwide, avian influenza has significantly affected poultry farms, leading to the culling of millions of birds and contributing to rising egg prices.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that while the virus poses a low risk to the general public, there have been 67 confirmed human cases in the U.S. since 2024, primarily among individuals with direct exposure to infected birds.
The temporary closure of live poultry markets in New York is a proactive step aimed at curbing the spread of avian influenza and safeguarding both animal and public health.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and will implement additional measures as necessary.
