State authorities continue sharp watch of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza as risk to humans remains low
Authorities from the State Ag Department and DEC say the risk to humans remains low as officials keep a sharp eye on a Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) that continues to spread amongst wild bird populations.
Within the last few weeks, authorities in Putnam County confirmed the detection of HPAI in a wild Goose. Meanwhile, the virus was also discovered on a poultry farm in Suffolk County.
“These detections are always going to be concerning, but we will continue to do all we can to safeguard our state’s flocks and livestock,” said State Ag Commissioner Richard A. Ball.
"The protocols we have in place, and continue to update, for early detection in poultry and livestock are working, helping us to identify cases and deploy resources to help. We encourage everyone who keeps poultry to be vigilant about minimizing their birds’ exposure to the virus and to wild bird populations and practice good biosecurity measures.”
“While there is no immediate threat to public health and no known cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in humans in New York State, I urge everyone who has regular contact with livestock and wild birds to remain vigilant and take precautions by wearing personal protective equipment when you’re in contact with these animals," said New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald.
"We will continue to work closely with the Department of Agriculture and Markets, the Department of Environmental Conservation and our local county health departments to monitor these detections in livestock and poultry as we continue to prepare for any potential risks to public health and safety.”
The New York State Department of Health is also reminding the public that this recent HPAI detection does not present an immediate public health concern.
The State Department of Health is providing guidance and resources to the local health departments responding to these two situations. Individuals who may have had contact with infected birds are being monitored for symptoms and will be evaluated for avian flu if any become sick.
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