New York State Implements Mandatory Avian Influenza Testing for Live Bird Markets
In response to recent detections of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in live bird markets, the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (AGM) has announced new testing requirements for all poultry entering the state’s live bird market system. This decisive action follows the proactive temporary closure of 82 live bird markets on February 7, 2025, in an effort to curb virus transmission and protect both animal and public health. Now, with all markets cleaned, sanitized, and reopened, the state is focusing on preventing reintroduction of the virus by requiring pre-entry testing for all poultry.
New Testing Requirements
Effective immediately, all poultry entering New York’s live bird markets must originate from flocks that have undergone avian influenza testing at a National Animal Health Laboratory Network (NAHLN) facility. Specific testing protocols include:
Gallinaceous poultry and domestic ducks: A minimum of 30 birds (or all birds in flocks of fewer than 30) aged seven days or older must test negative for avian influenza via real-time Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (rRT-PCR) testing. Samples must be collected within 72 hours prior to market entry, and a finalized lab report indicating negative results must accompany the shipment.
Waterfowl (excluding domestic ducks): Must be tested using the virus isolation method. Due to longer processing times for virus isolation results, prior written approval from a Department veterinarian is required before market entry.
These measures aim to prevent HPAI from entering live bird markets and ensure a safer environment for poultry producers, market workers, and consumers.
Statewide Surveillance and Biosecurity Measures
New York State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball emphasized that these new testing protocols are a "common-sense next step" in safeguarding the poultry industry. Health officials, including New York State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald, have reassured the public that the risk of avian influenza to humans remains low. However, heightened biosecurity and surveillance remain critical.
Governor Kathy Hochul’s administration continues to lead aggressive monitoring efforts. The state’s actions include:
Routine surveillance and rapid response measures to detect and contain HPAI outbreaks.
Strict biosecurity protocols for poultry farms and market facilities.
Public reporting tools to identify suspected HPAI cases in wildlife and domestic birds.
HPAI in Poultry and Livestock
Although there have been no detections of HPAI in New York’s livestock to date, the state is actively participating in the USDA’s National Milk Testing Strategy (NMTS) to monitor for potential outbreaks. All Grade "A" raw milk intended for pasteurization is being tested monthly at no cost to farmers. In addition, raw milk permit holders are now subject to mandatory monthly HPAI testing as per a new Notice and Order signed by Commissioner Ball.
The state has also maintained stringent import restrictions on dairy cattle to minimize the risk of cross-species transmission. These restrictions include pre-entry testing requirements for non-lactating dairy cattle from states with confirmed HPAI cases and mandatory health certifications for all imported dairy cattle.
Protecting New York’s Poultry Industry
Veterinarians and poultry producers are urged to implement robust biosecurity practices, limit poultry exposure to wild birds, and remain vigilant for signs of avian influenza. Symptoms to watch for include sudden drops in egg production, respiratory distress, and unexplained mortality.
Suspected cases should be reported immediately to AGM’s Division of Animal Industry at (518) 457-3502 or the USDA at (866) 536-7593. Additionally, the USDA’s "Defend the Flock" program provides valuable biosecurity resources for producers of all scales.
With these new testing requirements and heightened surveillance, New York is taking proactive steps to safeguard its live bird markets and poultry industry. By working together, veterinarians, farmers, and market operators can help prevent the spread of HPAI and ensure the continued safety of the state’s poultry supply.
For more information on HPAI prevention and testing protocols, visit the USDA’s Avian Influenza resource page or the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets website.
