Second Case of Avian Influenza Confirmed in Walker County Poultry Flock
WALKER COUNTY, Ga. — State and federal agriculture officials have confirmed a second case of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) in a commercial poultry operation in Walker County.
According to the Georgia Department of Agriculture, the affected facility — identified as Walker 02 — housed approximately 16,000 broiler breeder chickens and is located within an existing HPAI control area. Depopulation of the flock was completed Friday, January 23.
This marks Georgia’s second commercial detection of HPAI in 2026 and the fifth overall case in the state since the nationwide outbreak began in 2022.
A 10-kilometer control area remains under quarantine, with enhanced surveillance testing underway. Officials say the control zone has now been expanded to include five additional poultry farms.
During the quarantine period, movement of poultry, poultry products, equipment, and related materials is prohibited without a state-issued permit, as state and federal partners continue efforts to contain the virus and prevent further spread.
The Georgia Department of Agriculture reminds poultry owners — including backyard flock operators — to maintain strict biosecurity practices and report any signs of illness or unusual bird deaths immediately.