Gov. Kathy Hochul has ordered the temporary shutdown of live bird markets in New York City, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk Counties through February 14, 2025, following the detection of Avian Flu at seven locations [1[1[1[1][2[2[2[2][3[3[3[3]. The order affects roughly 80 markets in these areas and is aimed at preventing the spread of Highly Pathogenic avian Influenza (HPAI).
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball stated that the closure is a proactive measure to get ahead of the virus. The markets are required to clean and disinfect all surfaces wiht soap or detergent, rinse with water, and saturate with an appropriate disinfectant to kill the avian influenza virus [3[3[3[3].
The state is working with the USDA and other partners to minimize the economic impact on these markets and to ensure cooperation from the market operators in protecting public and animal health.
New York’s Proactive Measures Against Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)
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Governor Kathy Hochul has ordered the temporary shutdown of live bird markets in New York City, Westchester, and Nassau counties, aiming to prevent the spread of Highly Pathogenic avian Influenza (HPAI). The move comes as a preventive measure to safeguard both public and animal health amidst an outbreak of the virus.
Expert Interview: Dr. Linda Johnson on Avian Influenza and Market Closures
Maximum Brown (MB): Hello, Dr. Linda Johnson. Thank you for joining us today. Could you start by explaining the importance of closing live bird markets in the context of controlling the spread of HPAI?
Dr. Linda Johnson (LJ): Thank you for having me, Maximum. Closing live bird markets is a crucial step in controlling the spread of HPAI. The close proximity and crowded conditions of these markets facilitate the transmission of the virus among birds and, afterward, to humans. By temporarily closing these markets, we can disrupt the cycle of infection and prevent further outbreaks.
Proactive Measures by the State
MB: New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard Ball has described the closure as a proactive measure. What does proactiveness in this context entail?
LJ: Proactiveness here means taking action before an outbreak becomes an epidemic. It involves monitoring, early detection, and immediate response to potential threats. Commissioner Ball’s approach is aimed at getting ahead of the virus by implementing precautionary measures that can mitigate the risk of spread, thereby protecting both human and animal populations.
Sanitation and Disinfection Protocols
MB: The markets are required to clean and disinfect all surfaces using soap, detergent, and disinfectants. How effective are these methods in killing the avian influenza virus?
LJ: These methods are highly effective in killing the avian influenza virus when properly executed. The use of soap or detergent helps to break down the fatty envelope of the virus, rendering it ineffective. Disinfectants, especially those approved for use against avian influenza, provide an additional layer of protection by killing any remaining viral particles. Ensuring thorough coverage and contact time of the disinfectant is essential for maximum efficacy.
Cooperation and Economic Support
MB: The state is working with the USDA and other partners to minimize the economic impact on these markets. How important is economic support in ensuring cooperation from market operators?
LJ: Economic support is vital in gaining the cooperation of market operators. These closures can have important financial implications, so providing assistance helps to alleviate the burden and encourages operators to comply with the health measures. This collaboration ensures that public health and animal well-being are prioritized without causing undue financial hardship.
Long-term Strategies
MB: What long-term strategies do you recommend for managing avian influenza outbreaks?
LJ: Long-term strategies include strengthening biosecurity measures, improving surveillance and monitoring systems, and enhancing public education on disease prevention. Implementing enhanced farm management practices and promoting vaccination where feasible can also help in managing and controlling avian influenza outbreaks. Continuous research and development of new vaccines and diagnostic tools are essential for staying ahead of the virus.
Closing Remarks
MB: Thank you, Dr. Johnson, for your insights on this critical issue. Your expertise has provided valuable context and understanding of the measures being taken.
LJ: Thank you for having me, maximum. It’s crucial to educate the public and take proactive steps to control avian influenza and protect both human and animal health.
