New York Shuts Live Bird Markets Amid Avian Flu Concerns

By Blake Jackson

Governor Kathy Hochul announced that the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) has issued a new order for live bird markets in New York City and surrounding counties to combat the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

Following seven detections of HPAI in markets within a week, the order requires all markets to sell down their inventory, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection, and remain closed for five days. Markets with confirmed HPAI cases will be depopulated.

“Safeguarding public health is all about being proactive, and New York State is continuing our coordinated effort to monitor for the Avian Influenza,” Governor Hochul said. “My top priority will always be to keep New Yorkers safe, and I have directed our state agencies to use all available resources to ensure we are taking every measure necessary to keep the risk to the public low. We will continue to take these measured, common sense steps that will curb the spread of bird flu and ultimately protect our communities.”

Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball emphasized the importance of this action: "We’re continuing to work hard with our partners to combat the spread of HPAI in New York. Today, I signed a Notice and Order requiring that live bird markets in New York City and the surrounding areas close for cleaning and disinfection, even if they haven’t yet had a detection of HPAI in their market."

HPAI is a highly contagious disease that can be deadly to poultry. The temporary closures are crucial to preventing further virus transmission within the markets.

The order mandates:

• No poultry can be delivered to any covered market from February 7 to 14, 2025.
• Markets with birds exhibiting HPAI symptoms must immediately contact AGM for investigation and testing.
• Markets with confirmed HPAI cases must depopulate their birds, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection, and remain closed for at least five days.
• All markets in New York City and surrounding counties must sell down their inventory within three days, undergo cleaning and disinfection, and remain closed for five days.

The cleaning and disinfection process involves removing all organic debris and thoroughly cleaning and disinfecting all surfaces with approved disinfectants.

This order aims to minimize the spread of HPAI and protect both public and animal health.

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