Georgia State Veterinarian on HPAI Confirmation

Thursday, the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) and USDA’s Animal & Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA APHIS) confirmed Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a non-commercial, backyard flock located in Toombs County, Georgia. Samples were taken on May 29th after the flock owners reported sick birds and an increased rate of mortality. After testing for the H5N1 avian influenza virus, it was confirmed.

Georgia State Veterinarian Dr. Janemarie Hennebelle, during a Thursday afternoon press conference, said they are the 36^th state in the U.S. to be impacted by this virus.

And Dr. Hennebelle continues to encourage poultry producers to practice good bio-security measures.

This is the first detection of the virus in domestic birds in Georgia in 2022. There are no detections in commercial poultry in the state. Should you notice a sudden increase in the number of sick birds or bird deaths, call the Avian Influenza Hotline at 770-766-6850. For more updates and information regarding biosecurity tips visit these sites:

• Protect Your Flock
• Defend the Flock
• AI Information for Hunters
• Avian Influenza FAQ
• Protect Your Livelihood