• New York Governor Kathy Hochul orders the closure of live poultry markets after seven cases of bird flu were found.
• The shutdown affects markets in New York City, Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties.
• Infected birds will be depopulated and markets must undergo cleaning before reopening.
• Health officials state that there is no immediate threat to public health from the avian influenza.
• The Centers for Disease Control reports a low risk of bird flu transmission to the public.

In a proactive measure to curb the spread of avian influenza, New York Governor Kathy Hochul announced the temporary closure of live poultry markets across New York City and several adjacent counties. This decision comes after inspectors discovered seven cases of bird flu during routine inspections in regions including the Bronx, Brooklyn, and Queens.

The closure order is applicable until at least February 14. It mandates all live bird markets in New York City, as well as those in Westchester, Nassau, and Suffolk counties, to cease operations, ensuring that infected flocks are fully depopulated. New York State officials emphasized that these measures are essential to safeguard public health, confirming that there are no current human cases of the virus within the state.

Governor Hochul highlighted the need for "measured, common-sense steps," reiterating, "Safeguarding public health is all about being proactive." New York State Health Commissioner, Dr. James McDonald, reassured the public by stating, "The risk to the general public remains low," as stated by the Centers for Disease Control. So far, only a few isolated cases have occurred among farmworkers who have had close contact with infected birds.

In line with the state’s health directives, markets must sell down their remaining inventories, complete necessary cleaning and disinfection, and pass subsequent state inspections before reopening. Hochul's administration is collaborating closely with health and agricultural officials to monitor the situation, as concerns about the outbreak continue to grow.

For ongoing coverage on this story and developments concerning bird flu precautions in New York, visit ABC News.