New Jersey health officials confirmed a highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) outbreak at a live bird market in Essex County on May 23, 2025, prompting immediate containment measures and health monitoring protocols.
The outbreak, discovered through coordinated efforts between the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture, resulted in the depopulation of nearly 123 birds at the affected market. No infected poultry were sold to the public before the detection.
Public Health Response
State and federal partners moved quickly to prevent disease spread, implementing cleaning and disinfection procedures while temporarily closing the market. Workers at the facility are being assessed for exposure and monitored for symptoms by local health departments.
Health officials emphasize that HPAI poses minimal risk to the general public. Human infections typically occur only after close, unprotected contact with infected birds or contaminated environments. No sustained human-to-human transmission has been documented.
Symptoms and Safety Measures
Individuals exposed to infected birds should monitor for symptoms including fever, respiratory issues, eye irritation, headaches, and body aches for 10 days. Those experiencing symptoms should seek immediate medical attention.
Properly cooked poultry and eggs heated to 165°F remain safe for consumption.
Wild Bird Situation Improving
Meanwhile, New Jersey is experiencing a downward trend in wild bird deaths from avian influenza. The outbreak, which began in December and affected various species including waterfowl and raptors across all counties, appears to be subsiding.
Wildlife officials continue monitoring efforts while advising residents to avoid contact with sick or dead birds. Those finding dead wildlife should use protective equipment and report groups of five or more dead birds through the state’s Wild Bird Disease Reporting Form.
Since January 2022, avian influenza has impacted birds in every U.S. state.