The Georgia Department of Agriculture announced Monday the lifting of its 24-day suspension on poultry sales and activities statewide, effective immediately. The decision comes after extensive testing and surveillance efforts within a control area in Elbert County revealed no further cases of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI).

The suspension, which affected live poultry auctions, flea markets, and other gatherings, was implemented following the detection of HPAI at two commercial poultry operations in Elbert County in mid-January. A 6.2-mile radius control zone was established around the affected farms, encompassing 103 commercial poultry operations. “I’m excited to announce that both commercial poultry producers in the control area and poultry enthusiasts across our state can return to normal operations,” said Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper in a statement.

Within the control area, the Georgia Poultry Lab Network (GPLN) conducted over 4,500 tests on nearly 50,000 chickens across numerous flocks, yielding no further positive results for HPAI. This rigorous testing regime, coupled with the implementation of movement restrictions requiring permits for transporting birds and related products, proved successful in containing the outbreak. While the statewide suspension has been lifted, the two affected premises in Elbert County remain under quarantine, and the Georgia Department of Agriculture emphasizes that HPAI remains a significant threat.

Officials continue to monitor for potential outbreaks and urge all poultry owners to maintain strict biosecurity protocols to protect Georgia’s valuable poultry industry. “HPAI remains a significant threat to our #1 industry, and the Georgia Department of Agriculture will continue working around the clock to protect our state’s flocks and to keep prices as low as possible for Georgia consumers,” Harper added.