New Avian Influenza Case Confirmed in Backyard Flock in Georgia

We’ve been saying things were seasonally quiet on the Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza front, but last week brought new news. The Georgia Department of Agriculture and USDA-APHIS confirmed a case of HPAI in a backyard flock in Henry County, Georgia. This flock had about 45 mixed-species birds. It’s the state’s first confirmed case since January, the second backyard detection this year, and the fourth overall in Georgia in 2025.

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper said, “Backyard flocks that frequently interact with native wildlife, particularly waterfowl and vultures, have a higher risk of contracting Avian Influenza.” He praised the rapid response: flock owners reported sudden losses on August 29, and by August 30 officials had completed depopulation, disposal, and disinfection. Federal testing confirmed the H5N1 virus on September 3.

The virus likely spread through wild birds or contaminated environments. Officials urge flock owners across the Southeast to remain vigilant and maintain strong biosecurity.