In response to the discovery of avian flu cases in poultry, live bird markets in New York City, Long Island, and Westchester County will temporarily close for a week, state officials announced on Friday.
The move follows routine inspections that detected seven cases of the virus in markets located in Brooklyn, the Bronx, and Queens.
Authorities confirmed that all infected flocks will be culled to prevent further spread. While Governor Kathy Hochul reassured the public that avian flu does not currently pose a threat to human health, officials emphasized that the shutdown is a necessary precaution to contain the virus.
Under the state’s directive, affected markets must sell off their remaining inventory, conduct thorough cleaning and disinfection procedures, and remain closed for five days following the sanitation process.
Rising Concerns Over Bird Flu Spread
While no human cases of avian influenza have been reported in New York, officials remain vigilant as cases among animals have surged. The virus has affected a range of species, including poultry, wild birds, dairy cows, and even domestic cats.
In a concerning development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Wednesday that a second strain of bird flu was detected in dairy cows for the first time. Meanwhile, the number of birds impacted by the virus has been steadily climbing, with federal data showing an increase from 7 million in November to 23 million in January.
Public Health and Industry Implications
While the current strain of avian flu is not considered a direct risk to humans, experts continue to monitor the situation closely. Past outbreaks have led to significant disruptions in the poultry industry, affecting food supply chains and market prices.
The temporary closure of live bird markets highlights the state’s proactive approach to disease control, aiming to curb the virus’s spread before it escalates further. Officials will continue monitoring the situation and assess the need for additional measures in the coming weeks.
Keep up with the avian flu outbreak and its effects on the market with us on Que Onda Magazine.
