Governor Hochul Urges Vigilance Among Farmers and Wildlife Organizations to Prevent Spread of Virus
Governor Calls for Biosecurity Practices to Protect Domestic Animals and Minimize Risk
Governor Kathy Hochul today emphasized New York State’s continued proactive actions to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), particularly on New York farms. Following recent detections of HPAI in poultry in Suffolk County and among wild and domestic birds in Putnam County, the State is urging farmers, wildlife organizations, and others who interact with birds to remain vigilant for signs of illness in domestic animals. While the virus can spread rapidly among birds, no human cases have been documented in New York, and the risk to humans remains low.
“At my direction, New York State is actively monitoring for HPAI and implementing measures to safeguard our communities,” said Governor Hochul. “Although the public health risk is minimal, I encourage all New Yorkers, especially those working closely with birds, to take the necessary precautions to protect our state’s wildlife and agricultural industries.”
Preventive Measures and Guidance from State Officials
New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Commissioner Richard A. Ball stated:
“Since the first detection of HPAI in a backyard poultry operation in 2022, New York State has remained vigilant with protocols for early detection and prevention. These measures allow us to swiftly identify cases and deploy resources. Poultry and livestock owners must prioritize biosecurity practices to minimize exposure to the virus and wild bird populations.”
New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald added:
“We continue to collaborate with state and local partners to mitigate risks to those who may come into contact with infected animals. While the risk to humans is low, the Department of Health will provide resources and guidance to farmers and professionals interacting with wild birds to ensure public health safety.”
New York State Department of Environmental Conservation Interim Commissioner Sean Mahar emphasized:
“The DEC is working closely with state and federal partners to reduce HPAI’s spread. Avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, especially waterfowl and raptors, and hunters should not harvest sick animals. Report unusual wildlife mortalities to your local DEC regional office.”
Steps for Farmers and Poultry Owners
To prevent infections, the State urges poultry producers—from small backyard operations to large commercial farms—to review biosecurity plans and take protective measures:
- Limit outdoor access: Keep birds away from wild ducks, geese, and their droppings.
- Practice biosecurity: Use tools and checklists available on the USDA’s “Defend the Flock” website at https://www.aphis.usda.gov/aphis/ourfocus/animalhealth/animal-disease-information/avian/defend-the-flock-program.
Report any sick birds, unexplained deaths, or sudden drops in egg production to the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or the USDA at (866) 536-7593.
Enhanced Testing for Dairy Farms
The State has also launched new testing initiatives on dairy farms to combat potential outbreaks of HPAI in livestock. Although there have been no detections of HPAI in New York livestock to date, these measures aim to ensure early detection and safeguard animal and human health.
New York has issued import and testing requirements for dairy cattle entering fairs or exhibitions, in effect since April 2024. These efforts complement USDA’s support programs for producers, which include resources for biosecurity planning, HPAI testing, and financial assistance for related expenses.
For more information, visit the USDA’s avian influenza resource page at https://www.usda.gov/avianflu.
New Yorkers are reminded to take precautions when interacting with wild birds and poultry, report any unusual animal health incidents, and support efforts to prevent the spread of HPAI across the state.