Bird Flu Outbreak Expands: Second Commercial Poultry Flock Affected in Georgia

     In a concerning development for Georgia's poultry industry, state officials have confirmed a second case of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry flock. This new detection comes just days after the first case was reported in the state, marking a significant escalation of the bird flu outbreak in the nation's top chicken-producing state.

     The Georgia Department of Agriculture reported on Wednesday that the second case of bird flu was detected at a commercial poultry producer in Elbert County, the same county where the first case was found less than a week ago. The affected site, referred to as "Elbert 02," housed approximately 130,000 broilers and was located just 210 yards away from the first positive commercial case.

     Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper emphasized the immediacy of the state's response: "Our team at the Georgia Department of Agriculture responded immediately to start depopulation, disposal, and cleaning & disinfecting operations," Harper stated. He added that the proximity of the two affected premises allowed for a concurrent response to both cases. State agricultural teams have been working extended hours, even through a holiday weekend and in harsh weather conditions, to contain the outbreak and protect Georgia's leading industry.

     This outbreak poses a significant threat to Georgia's poultry sector, which ranks as the state's top agricultural industry35. In response to the initial detection, Georgia officials had already suspended all poultry exhibitions, shows, swaps, meets, and sales in the state. These measures remain in effect as authorities work to prevent further spread of the virus.

     The current bird flu situation extends beyond Georgia's borders. Since early 2022, outbreaks of H5N1 avian flu have led to the loss of a record 138.7 million birds across 50 states and Puerto Rico. The virus has affected not only poultry but also wild birds and other animals, including recent cases in dairy cattle.

     While the risk to human health remains low, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported 66 confirmed human cases of bird flu in the U.S. since April 2024. However, the Georgia Department of Agriculture has reassured consumers that poultry products in stores and restaurants remain safe for consumption.

     As the situation evolves, state and federal agencies are working closely with poultry producers to manage and control the outbreak. The poultry industry, a cornerstone of Georgia's economy, faces significant challenges in the coming weeks as efforts to contain the virus continue. Poultry owners and producers are urged to maintain strict biosecurity measures and report any suspicious symptoms in their flocks immediately. The public is advised to stay informed about updates from state agricultural authorities regarding the ongoing situation