In today’s Health Alert, a new strain of bird flu - H5N9 - has been detected in the U.S. The first confirmed case was found at a commercial duck farm in California.

The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources is receiving increasing reports of sick or dead wild birds on the Eastern Shore.

The Health Department released a statement yesterday aimed at educating residents on the rising presence of the Avian Influenza, and how they can stay healthy during a time of uncertainty. Both state environmentalists and health officials are rallying together to combat the rising issue.

Worries about the bird flu have prompted ZooAmerica in Hershey to make some changes. It's temporarily relocating its bird population to avoid contact with wild birds that may be infected with highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI).

This latest outbreak is part of a broader epizootic that has swept across the United States, affecting not only poultry but also wild birds, mammals and humans.

Scientists say the temporary freeze on communications from federal officials creates a troubling blind spot for those tracking the virus.

As the bird flu continues to spread in the U.S., Massachusetts farmers must protect their flocks. But due to the recent rise in the disease, growing and raising their own food on property is a tradition that may have to be put on hold.

Six dead swans have been found in Worcester in a case of suspected bird flu. Worcester City Council said on Tuesday evening the birds had been found along a stretch of the River Severn between the cathedral and the railway viaduct.