New York Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the temporary closure of around 80 live bird markets in the state due to a recent detection of avian flu, also known as H5N1, at some of the markets. The order aims to curb the spread of the virus and safeguard public health.
The affected markets are located in New York City and surrounding counties, including Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties. Markets with confirmed cases must get rid of their inventory, while those without confirmed cases have three days to either sell or dispose of all their birds before cleaning and disinfecting for at least five days.
Experts emphasize that the virus does not currently present an immediate threat to public health, but repeated exposure could lead to transmission between people. To mitigate this risk, live market workers are advised to wear personal protective equipment when interacting with livestock and wild birds.
However, animal rights groups have expressed concerns that the temporary closure may not be enough to address the issue. They argue that markets will still receive thousands of sick birds upon reopening and that longer-term solutions, such as permanent closures or stricter regulations, are needed.
Governor Hochul has taken a proactive approach by ordering the market closures, citing the importance of safeguarding public health. The state’s Department of Agriculture and Markets has also asked live bird market operators in New Jersey to voluntarily clean and disinfect their markets before reopening with live birds.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/07/nyregion/nyc-bird-flu-markets.html