The Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) announced on Friday that the suspension of certain poultry and feathered fowl activities that was issued on Feb. 16, 2022, has been lifted. Exhibitions, shows, sales (flea markets, auction markets), swaps, and meets pertaining to poultry and feathered fowl can resume within the state of Georgia. GDA urges poultry producers attending such events to follow strict biosecurity.
Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) continues to be a threat nationwide. GDA remains committed and ready to protect poultry within the state. Please see Commercial, Backyard, & Wildlife cases (USDA APHIS) for more information about HPAI detections in the United States.
Good biosecurity practices are the best defense against AI infection, and poultry producers must take the following measures to protect their flocks:
- Isolate new birds for 30 days prior to introducing them to your flock.
- Implement strict biosecurity both at home and at events.
- Monitor flocks for clinical signs consistent with AI.
- With HPAI, birds may become quiet, not eat and/or drink, have diarrhea, and have discolored combs and feet. Birds may also die suddenly with no signs of disease.
- Report any concerns to your Veterinarian, State Animal Health Official or Federal Animal Health Official immediately.
AI is a reportable disease in Georgia. If you suspect your birds have avian influenza, call the AI Hotline at 770-766-6850. For more information regarding AI, read our frequently asked questions.