The Georgia Department of Agriculture has confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry flock in Hart County. This is the third detection of HPAI in a commercial poultry operation in Georgia during 2026, and the sixth overall since the nationwide outbreak began in February 2022.
According to officials, on January 24, 2026, increased bird mortality was observed by the producer, who then contacted the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network (GPLN). Samples tested presumptive positive for HPAI on the same day. Severe winter weather has delayed delivery of samples to USDA’s National Veterinary Services Lab for further confirmation. The affected premises is a broiler-breeder operation housing about 39,600 birds at the time.
Commissioner Tyler J Harper stated, “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. Our teams are working around the clock to contain the virus, protect our state’s poultry flock, and minimize any impacts to other producers and Georgia consumers. There is no threat to the safety of our food supply at this time, and no deceased birds ever entered the supply chain.”
Due to heightened concern from both severe winter weather and disease risk, response operations began on January 27 at Hart 01 alongside ongoing activities in Walker County. All commercial poultry sites within a ten-kilometer control area remain under quarantine with enhanced surveillance testing. Movement of poultry or related materials within this zone requires a permit from GDA. Law enforcement has secured access to affected sites for authorized personnel only.
