Georgia Commercial Poultry Industry No Longer Absent of HPAI
For the first time since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022, Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a commercial poultry operation in Georgia. The affected farm in Elbert County housed approximately 45,000 broiler breeders.“This is a serious threat to Georgia’s #1 industry and the livelihoods of thousands of Georgians who make their living in our state’s poultry industry,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper. “We are working around the clock to mitigate any further spread of the disease and ensure that normal poultry activities in Georgia can resume as quickly as possible.”
The farm reported clinical signs of avian influenza on January 15, 2025, with confirmation following on January 17. Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to manage depopulation, cleaning, and disinfection, with efforts continuing through the weekend.
All commercial poultry operations within a 6.2-mile radius are under quarantine and surveillance. Additionally, all in-state poultry exhibitions, shows, swaps, and sales are suspended until further notice.
Georgia poultry producers are urged to remain vigilant and adhere to biosecurity protocols to protect their flocks.