The New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets has issued a reminder to poultry and dairy farmers in the state to maintain strict biosecurity practices to prevent the spread of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI). This warning comes after HPAI was detected in a dairy herd in Wisconsin and with increased reports of the disease among wild birds and poultry across the country during migratory season. While no cases have been found in New York’s dairy cattle so far, there was one confirmed case at a live poultry market within the past month, as well as several detections among wild birds this season.
State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball stated, “New York continues to take an aggressive, proactive approach in response to outbreaks of HPAI across the nation and I know that our farmers have been working hard to keep their animals safe. Still, in the thick of the migratory season, it’s crucial that we remain vigilant and that our farmers take precautionary measures and ensure strong on-farm biosecurity measures are in place.”
Dr. James McDonald, State Health Commissioner, added: “Protecting the health of New Yorkers remains our top priority. Even though the risk of avian influenza to New Yorkers remains low and there are no human cases in New York State, we are closely monitoring the situation and working with our partners to keep people informed and protected. Strong biosecurity and early reporting help safeguard public health.”
The Department encourages all livestock owners—both commercial operations and hobbyists—to review their biosecurity plans. Materials for poultry biosecurity can be accessed on USDA’s “Defend the Flock” website, while livestock resources are available on USDA’s livestock site.
Farmers are advised to restrict unnecessary visitors; use signage for restricted areas; question visitors about recent bird contact; prohibit entry for those who own fowl; require footwear disinfection; secure buildings after hours; limit vehicle traffic on farms; disinfect transport vehicles between uses; and report any unusual animal illnesses or deaths.
Visitors should not enter farms without permission, wear clean clothes when visiting farms, wait for an escort before entering farm property, avoid touching animals unless required by their job duties, and report anything unusual regarding animal health.
Additionally, it is recommended that dairy farmers and poultry owners prevent contact between their animals and wild waterfowl or droppings by limiting outdoor access at this time.
Veterinarians noticing symptoms of illness in farm animals should contact the Department at (518) 457-3502. Reports about sick birds or sudden drops in egg production can be made either to the Department or directly to USDA at (866) 536-7593.
New York’s prevention efforts include participation in USDA’s National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) as well as mandatory testing for raw milk permit holders. In July, New York achieved Unaffected status under NMTS requirements due to ongoing testing showing absence of HPAI among dairy cattle.
Import restrictions remain active for dairy cattle entering New York or attending fairs until further notice. The USDA and Food & Drug Administration affirm that pasteurized milk products remain safe because pasteurization eliminates harmful pathogens like HPAI virus from milk. Properly cooked meat products also pose no concern regarding HPAI transmission.
More information about HPAI prevention measures is available at agriculture.ny.gov/highly-pathogenic-avian-influenza-hpai.
The New York Department of Agriculture and Markets promotes agriculture throughout New York State while protecting food supplies through various programs such as grants supporting local markets and product enhancement initiatives. The agency has distributed millions through grant programs like Grown & Certified to support food processors statewide. Led by Commissioner Richard Ball since 2014 alongside other deputy commissioners including Steve McGrattan, Katie Howard, Elizabeth Wolters, M. Kelly Young, and Damali Wynter,the department traces its roots backto 1841.It operates statewidewith a focus on advancing agricultural practices while safeguarding environmental resources.
