Bird flu in Henry County backyard flock | What to know
It’s the first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza since January in Georgia.
HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — The Georgia Department of Agriculture and other officials confirmed a positive case of bird flu in a backyard flock in Henry County.
Officials said the flock has about 45 birds of mixed species, but it is non-commercial. It’s the first case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza since January and the second detection in a backyard flock this year.
“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.
On Aug. 29, officials said the owners of the flock reported to the Georgia Poultry Laboratory Network “increased mortality” in their birds. Officials were immediately dispatched the same day to collect samples to test. The results came back positive for H5N1 avian influenza on Sept. 3.
“I am incredibly proud of our response effort. Our team deployed immediately to the affected premises and worked swiftly to successfully contain the disease, prevent any further spread, and decontaminate the premises,” Harper added.
