New York Agriculture and Health Officials Urge Farmers to Strengthen Biosecurity Amid Avian Influenza Concerns
The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets is urging poultry and dairy farmers to reinforce biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). The advisory comes after a recent detection of HPAI in a dairy herd in Wisconsin and rising cases in wild birds and poultry across the country during the migratory season.
While no HPAI cases have been found in New York dairy cattle to date, the state confirmed one case in a live poultry market last month and several detections in wild birds this season. The Department continues proactive efforts, including testing and import requirements for dairy cattle. There have been no human cases in New York, and the Department of Health says the risk to people remains low.
“New York continues to take an aggressive, proactive approach in response to outbreaks of HPAI across the nation,” said State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball. “Our farmers have been working hard to keep their animals safe, but during the peak of migratory season, vigilance and strong on-farm biosecurity are essential.”
State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added, “Even though the risk to New Yorkers is low, we are closely monitoring the situation. Strong biosecurity and early reporting help protect both animal and public health.”
Recommended Biosecurity Measures for Farmers
The Department encourages all livestock, commercial, and hobby poultry farmers to review their biosecurity plans and follow recommended precautions. Resources are available on the USDA’s “Defend the Flock” website for poultry and the USDA livestock website for other animals.
Key tips include:
- Limit visitors and post biosecurity signs.
- Ask visitors about recent contact with birds and restrict access to anyone who owns fowl.
- Require footwear disinfection and lock all barns and chicken houses.
- Avoid non-essential vehicle traffic on the farm.
- Clean and disinfect poultry transport coops and vehicles after each use.
- Report sick or dead birds immediately to the Department.
How Visitors Can Help
- Do not enter farms without permission.
- Wear clean clothes and shoes for farm visits.
- Stay in the parking lot until escorted onto the farm.
- Avoid touching animals unless part of your job.
- Report any unusual observations to the Department.
Farmers are also advised to limit outdoor access for animals and keep them away from wild ducks, geese, and their droppings.
Veterinarians and farmers noticing symptoms of illness in livestock should contact the Department at (518) 457-3502. Sick birds, unexplained high mortality, or sudden drops in egg production should also be reported to the Department or the USDA at (866) 536-7593.
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