BREAKING NEWS: Bird flu in NYC Metro area

Gov. Kathy Hochul this morning announced that bird flu has arrived in the New York Metro area, with a total of seven cases reported so far in poultry. As a precaution, she ordered a one-week shutdown of all live poultry markets in the area, including Westchester and Long Island. Approximately 80 facilities are affected.

Hochul said that residents should not be overly concerned at this point and emphasized that the state’s action is precautionary.

“Over the last week inspectors have detected seven cases of bird flu in poultry during routine inspections at live bird markets in the Bronx, Brooklyn and Queens,” she said, adding that state officials are working closely with market owners to “depopulate” infected flocks.

The market shutdown order means that for the next week no live poultry can be delivered to those markets.

“Uninfected markets must sell-down all inventory, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection and then remain closed for at least five days. Each must then be inspected … before they can reopen,” Hochul said.

Back on Feb. 3, Westchester County Health Commissioner Dr. Sherlita Amler said, “While there are no cases here in Westchester County, we must still be vigilant. Avian flu remains a concern, and taking preventive steps—such as avoiding contact with sick or dead birds and following proper hygiene practices—helps protect both public health and our local wildlife.”

The county urged that if a dead bird is found on a property, it should be disposed of in accordance with New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) guidance. Proper precautions include wearing disposable gloves, a mask, and eye protection. Avoid direct contact with the animal and its fluids; keep children and pets away, use a shovel, and wash hands and clothing immediately after with soap and hot water. Carcasses should be triple-bagged in garbage or contractor bags and placed in an outdoor trash can.

Amler said, “The virus can be airborne, and you don’t want it getting in your eyes, nose, or mouth. Always wash your hands and clothing with soap and water after disposing of a dead bird.”

Amler also advised residents to keep their pets away from sick or dead birds and not to directly touch any sick or dying animal.

This is a developing story and will be updated as more details become available.