ATLANTA – The Georgia Department of Agriculture has detected a positive case of bird flu in a second commercial poultry flock in Elbert County.
The discovery of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) has prompted the agency to suspend poultry activities in Georgia. However, retail sales of poultry products including meat and eggs have not been affected.
“HPAI remains a serious threat to our state’s economy, Georgia’s No.-1 industry, and the health and safety of poultry in our state,” Georgia Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper said Wednesday. “Our team at the Georgia Department of Agriculture responded immediately to start depopulation, disposal, and cleaning and disinfecting operations.”
Harper said the close proximity of the two cases of bird flu – including the first case discovered late last week – allowed the his agency and law enforcement officials to set up a secure perimeter to prevent further spread of the disease.
All commercial poultry operations within 10 kilometers (6.2 miles) of where the two cases occurred remain under quarantine and will continue to undergo increased surveillance testing for at least two weeks.
The suspension of poultry activities including auctions, flea markets, shows, and exhibitions involving live birds will remain in effect until further notice.