A positive case of bird flu (HIPA virus) has been found in a commercial poultry flock in Hart County. This marks the third detection of the virus in a commercial poultry operation in Georgia this year and the sixth overall since the nationwide outbreak began in February 2022.
“With severe cold weather persisting and migratory waterfowl continuing to pass through our state, it is not unexpected to see an uptick in HPAI cases. Biosecurity is our best defense against HPAI, and we’re encouraging producers around Georgia to ensure they continue to implement Gold Standard biosecurity protocols,” state Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said. “There is no threat to the safety of our food supply at this time, and no deceased birds (have) entered the supply chain.”
A week ago, the Hart County producer noticed signs of increased mortality in their flock and contacted the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network (GPLN). Samples were collected, transported to GPLN for testing, and returned a presumptive positive for Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza that same day. Due to inclement weather, delivery of the samples to USDA’s National Veterinary Services Lab in Ames, Iowa, have been delayed. The presumptive positive from GPLN allows GDA to immediately begin response operations. The affected premises is a broiler-breeder operations with approximately 39,600 birds at the time of detection.
All commercial poultry operations within a 6.2-mile control area remain under quarantine and are subject to enhanced surveillance testing. Movement of poultry, poultry products, and related materials into, out of, or within the control area is strictly prohibited without a permit issued by state agriculture department officials.
The other two outbreaks were found in Walker County in the northwest part of the state.
