Over 60 dead birds, including geese, swans, and ducks, were found at Billington Sea in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Authorities suspect avian flu as the cause. Residents are urged not to touch sick or dead birds and to report them at mass.gov/reportbirds, according to NBC Boston.
A viral illness affecting birds was reported over the weekend, with some birds sent for testing, pending results. Smaller outbreaks have been noted in geese, and avian flu has also been found in Vermont. Officials state there is a "low risk to the public." People are advised to report, not rescue, birds on ice. Backyard poultry owners are encouraged to keep their birds confined, as reported by NBC Boston and CBS News Boston
Poultry owners in Plymouth are being advised to take precautions amid an outbreak, including wearing protective gear and washing hands after handling birds. Karen Keane, Plymouth's public health director, stated, "Poultry owners should keep their birds away from wild waterfowl, limit the number of people that have access to your flock, and if you share equipment with other bird owners, clean and disinfect between locations." The New England Wildlife Center is helping with the cleanup, while health officials continue to provide updates and guidance to the community, as stated by CBS News Boston.
