On January 9, 2025, officials confirmed a case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a small flock of 13 chickens and ducks in Clayton County, Georgia. This marks the third case in a backyard flock and the fourth overall since the outbreak began in February 2022.

Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper emphasized the importance of strict biosecurity to protect the state’s poultry, as the outbreak has affected over 133 million birds nationwide, with only a small fraction from Georgia.

In late December 2024, the flock owners reported an increase in deaths among their birds. The testing of carcasses confirmed the presence of HPAI on January 8, 2025. Additional genomic sequencing is being conducted for further analysis. Following the discovery, officials took immediate action to depopulate, clean, and disinfect the area to prevent further spread of the disease, likely transmitted through interaction with wild birds.

The Georgia Department of Agriculture is collaborating with public health officials to monitor those who had contact with the affected birds. Poultry owners are advised to watch for sick birds and report any issues to the Avian Influenza Hotline at 770-766-6850. More resources on biosecurity are available on the Department’s website.