The Georgia poultry industry and the Gainesville-based Georgia Poultry Federation (GPF) are closely monitoring the follow-ups to the state’s first confirmed outbreak of bird flu in the new year.
It was reported earlier this week in commercial flock in northwest Georgia’s Walker County.
EARLIER STORY. POSTED WEDNESDAY: Ga.’s first confirmed case of bird flu of ’26
Mike Giles is president of the poultry federation.
“We appreciate the quick response by the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network and USDA,” Giles said Thursday. “The poultry industry is working closely with these partners in a coordinated response aimed at ensuring that the virus does not spread to other locations.”
How concerning should this be for the poultry industry in the state?
“The current outbreak has been ongoing since 2022. It is a serious concern for poultry producers in Georgia and throughout the nation.”
Are there things poultry growers can do to protect their flocks or is this just a “keep your fingers crossed” thing?
“The main defense against avian influenza infecting a commercial poultry flock is a strong biosecurity plan which emphasizes a line of separation between the inside of chicken houses and the outside environment where the virus can exist. Regular communications with poultry growers are shared emphasizing the importance of biosecurity to minimize the risk of their flocks being infected with the virus.”
Is there anything the state is or can do to help?
“The state of Georgia is a strong partner with industry in the fight against avian influenza. The Georgia Department of Agriculture is the agency that coordinates the response which is designed to react swiftly to prevent the spread of the virus to other farms. The Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network in Gainesville is a key resource which continually monitors for the presence of the virus. We are thankful for the support provided by the legislature which enables these agencies to do their jobs so well.”
The last confirmed case in the state was found in Elbert County in northeast Georgia about this time last year.
EARLIER STORY. POSTED FEBRUARY 11, 2025: Bird Flu Update: State lifts suspension of poultry activities