Massachusetts officials announced Wednesday that bird flu is now considered to be “widespread” in the state and urged the public to avoid handling birds or other animals that are dead or appear sick.

The circulating bird flu has become “widespread” in Massachusetts, as officials believe the virus has killed 500 to 1,000 wild birds across the region.

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.