Bird flu has made its way to Brooklyn
Elected officials are adding precautions to local livestock markets to stop the spread of bird flu.
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Elected officials are adding precautions to local livestock markets to stop the spread of bird flu.
Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Friday that bird flu is in at least one Brooklyn livestock market-- though at this time it is unclear as to where.
Hochul shared in a virtual announcement that "out of an abundance of caution, and to thwart any further transmission, we're issuing a notice and order to temporarily shut down all livestock markets in NYC."
That plan looks like the following:
From Feb. 7 - Feb. 14:
No poultry can be delivered to live markets.
All uninfected markets must sell down on inventory, undergo thorough cleaning and disinfection and close down for at least five days
All markets must be inspected by the state before reopening
New Yorkers say they seemed happy with the governor's decision to close down shop but remain apprehensive to eat chicken. Lynn Schulman, chair of the New York City Council Committee on Health, says that is not necessary. She assured New Yorkers that while the detection of bird flu is concerning, the current risk to the public remains low.
The New York State Department of Health says those most at risk in contracting the bird flu are those who are in contact with infected birds.
If you work in livestock, make sure to wear personal protective equipment and avoid contact with dead or sick birds.
There is currently no evidence of human-to-human transmission in NYC.
