The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture (NJDA) have confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a live bird market located in Essex County. State and federal authorities are working in coordination to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
Officials say the virus, which is highly contagious and often fatal among domestic poultry, was detected in a routine inspection by the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) and NJDA’s Division of Animal Health. No live poultry from the affected market were sold to the public, and the risk to human health remains low, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
As part of the response, approximately 123 birds are being depopulated from the market. The facility will undergo cleaning and disinfection, after which it will remain temporarily closed before it can be restocked. Quarantine protocols are in place until authorities determine the site is safe.
Public health officials are monitoring individuals who may have been exposed to infected birds. Workers at the market are being screened for symptoms and will continue to be observed by the local health department and the New Jersey Department of Health. If any symptoms—such as fever, respiratory distress, or conjunctivitis—develop, those individuals will be evaluated for HPAI.
Avian influenza does not pose an immediate public health concern, as human infections have been rare and typically occur only after close, prolonged contact with infected animals. There is no evidence of sustained human-to-human transmission. Health authorities emphasize that poultry and eggs are safe to consume when cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
Poultry owners and industry workers are advised to maintain strict biosecurity measures. These include limiting exposure to wild birds, avoiding the sharing of equipment, wearing dedicated clothing and footwear around flocks, and properly disinfecting tools and surfaces. The Rutgers Cooperative Extension Offices across counties are providing personal protective equipment (PPE) and additional guidance.
The NJDA reminds the public that HPAI is a reportable disease. Suspected cases in poultry should be immediately reported to the Division of Animal Health at (609) 671-6400. Suspected human cases should be directed to local health departments.
Meanwhile, state and federal agencies continue to monitor HPAI in wild bird populations across New Jersey. Although a surge in bird deaths was noted earlier this year, current reports indicate a declining trend. Species impacted include waterfowl, raptors, and scavenger birds. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and USDA are collaborating with local authorities to manage safe removal of potentially infected wildlife.
Residents who encounter sick or dead birds, particularly in groups of five or more, are encouraged to report sightings via the state’s Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form. Proper disposal methods, including double-bagging and use of PPE, are advised to prevent potential transmission to other animals or humans.
Since January 2022, HPAI has been reported in both wild and domestic birds across all 50 states. Ongoing updates and guidance are available through the USDA and NJDA websites.