Georgia Regains HPAI-Free Status

Georgia has regained its Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI)–free status in poultry, following the October 23rd detection in a Gordon County commercial flock, the state’s eighth case since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022. According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the regained designation, recognized by the World Organization for Animal Health, reopens the door for poultry exports and international trade.

Commissioner Tyler Harper emphasized the speed of the state’s response, noting, “Following the detection… our Department responded immediately… and successfully contained the virus in less than 24 hours.” He reiterated that HPAI remains a major threat to Georgia’s top industry and that strict biosecurity remains essential.

State Veterinarian Dr. Janemarie Hennebelle added that while the status is an important milestone, growers must remain alert. “It’s essential for poultry growers and flock owners to minimize contact between wild birds and poultry, adhere strictly to biosecurity protocols, and stay alert for signs of HPAI.”

Although the virus continues to circulate nationally, Georgia’s limited number of affected flocks and its rapid containment efforts illustrate the state’s strong surveillance and mitigation capacity.