Governor Hochul characterized the action as a proactive step after the detection of seven cases of bird flu in Queens, the Bronx, and Brooklyn in the initial week of the month. “My utmost priority will always be the safety of New Yorkers, and I have instructed our state agencies to utilize all feasible resources to ensure that we are implementing every necessary measure to minimize the risk to the public,” Hochul conveyed. The Wildlife Conservation Society reported on Saturday that three ducks perished at the Queens Zoo due to avian influenza. Additionally, the society mentioned that a minimum of 12 birds expired at the Bronx Zoo, with potential exposure to the virus, pending confirmation of the cause of death through laboratory testing. “As a precautionary step, over the last fortnight, we have relocated susceptible bird species to secure zones within our parks,” stated the conservation society. “Our veterinarians and curators continue to maintain close vigilance on the situation in the vicinity and are engaged in collaborative efforts with City, State, and Federal authorities.” Apprehensions regarding bird flu are on the upsurge nationwide, leading to a surge in egg prices. In a recent incident, thieves absconded with 100,000 eggs in Pennsylvania earlier this week, tallying a value of approximately $40,000. Towards the end of January, New York Attorney General Letitia James cautioned businesses against engaging in price gouging practices. “While the bird flu is impacting poultry farms and causing a scarcity on a national scale, this should not serve as a justification for businesses to substantially escalate prices,” articulated James. Poultry byproducts are not the sole household items causing concern — a novel strain of bird flu has been identified in dairy cows. The U.S. Department of Agriculture disclosed that a distinct strain was traced in Nevada cows for the first time via genetic sequencing of milk. The Nevada Department of Agriculture initiated an on-site probe and is endeavoring to curb any potential transmission, as highlighted by the USDA. Various research endeavors have validated that industrial pasteurization — employing heat treatment on milk — deactivates the virus, rendering the milk safe for consumption.
