A case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has been confirmed in a backyard flock in Henry County, Georgia, according to the Georgia Department of Agriculture (GDA) and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (USDA-APHIS). The affected flock consists of about 45 birds of mixed species. This marks the first HPAI case in Georgia since January 2025, the second detection among backyard flocks this year, and the fourth overall for 2025.
Officials emphasized that avian influenza does not threaten the food supply, as no infected animals have entered the food chain. The risk to humans remains low.
“Backyard flocks that frequently interact with native wildlife, particularly waterfowl & vultures, have a higher risk of contracting Avian Influenza, and we’re continuing to ask flock owners to closely monitor the health of their birds and immediately report any suspected illness,” said Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J Harper. “I am incredibly proud of our response effort. Our team deployed immediately to the affected premises worked swiftly to successfully contain the disease, prevent any further spread, and decontaminate the premises.”
Georgia is recognized as a leading poultry producer nationally. Since 2022, a nationwide outbreak has impacted more than 174 million birds across the country; only about 205,000 have been reported in Georgia during that period.
The GDA reported that on August 29, 2025, flock owners notified authorities after observing increased bird deaths. Samples collected by state officials were tested by both state and federal laboratories. The positive result for HPAI was confirmed on September 3. State officials completed depopulation and cleaning measures by August 30.
Authorities believe wild birds or environmental exposure likely led to transmission at this location. No commercial poultry or dairy operations are located within a six-mile radius.
The GDA is working closely with the Georgia Department of Public Health (DPH), which is monitoring anyone who may have had direct contact with affected animals. GDA staff used Level C personal protective equipment during site visits and will undergo a ten-day surveillance period out of caution.
Flock owners are urged to adopt strong biosecurity practices and report unusual illness or sudden deaths among birds to state authorities at 770-766-6850. Additional resources can be found on the department’s website, Defend the Flock – Resource Center, AI Information for Hunters, Avian Influenza FAQ, and Protect Your Livelihood PDF.
