NYC Live Poultry Markets Close Amid Bird Flu Scare
Breaking News: New York City's live poultry markets are temporarily shutting down due to a bird flu outbreak. Governor Kathy Hochul ordered the closure from February 7th to 14th to allow for thorough disinfection.
<img src="https://media-cldnry.s-nbcnews.com/image/upload/t_fit-760w,f_auto,q_auto:best/rockcms/2025-02/250209-live-poultry-market-new-york-vl-210p-5d6d02.jpg" alt="A live poultry market in New York City">This proactive measure follows the detection of seven bird flu cases in Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx. Markets that haven't tested positive must still sell remaining inventory and close for five days after cleaning. Those with infected birds need to contact the state's Department of Agriculture and Markets.
The Wider Impact of Avian Influenza
The bird flu outbreak isn't limited to NYC's markets. The Wildlife Conservation Society reported avian influenza-related deaths among birds at both the Queens and Bronx Zoos. This widespread issue is also contributing to the rising cost of eggs nationwide, with recent incidents like the theft of 100,000 eggs in Pennsylvania highlighting the crisis.
New York Attorney General Letitia James has warned against price gouging on eggs and poultry due to the shortages.
Furthermore, a new strain of bird flu has been detected in dairy cows in Nevada, prompting investigations and preventative measures. However, the USDA assures that commercial pasteurization renders milk safe for consumption.
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