PLYMOUTH, Mass. (WWLP) - Massachusetts environmental and health officials say the bird flu is the suspected cause of death in an outbreak that impacted geese and other wildlife in Plymouth. The bird flu, also known as highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), or H5N1, rarely infects humans however, state officials are advising the public to refrain from handling birds or other animals that are dead or appear sick.  In a news release sent to 22News on Sunday afternoon from MassWildlife, a recent outbreak at Billington Sea in Plymouth has impacted over 60 Canada geese, swans, and ducks. Officials are working to collect the dead birds conduct testing and safely dispose of them. Are you seeing an uptick in egg prices around Massachusetts? MassWildlife said that smaller outbreaks in recent weeks have also been suspected of bird flu in fewer than 15 geese at each location in other parts of Massachusetts. The locations have not been disclosed. Report sick or dead birds Officials are asking those who see sick or dead birds, to refrain from handling them and report to the following: Reporting wild birds:  The public should report observations of sick or deceased birds if 5 or more birds are found at a single location using this simple form at mass.gov/reportbirds.  Reporting domestic birds: The public should report sick or dead poultry or other domestic birds by calling MDAR’s Division of Animal Health at (617) 626-1795.  Handling birds and other wildlife: The public should strictly avoid handling any sick or dead birds or other animals. Report sightings as indicated above or call the local Animal Control Officer. Keeping pets safe: Pets should always be kept away from wildlife. Cats are highly susceptible to HPAI and may die from an infection. Cat owners in affected areas should keep their pets indoors to prevent them from being exposed to infected wildlife.  Hunting geese: While eating wild game meat is generally considered safe, licensed hunters can minimize risk from wildlife diseases by following best practices when handling and processing game.    State officials say that raptors, waterfowl and other aquatic birds are most at risk for infection, although any bird species should be considered susceptible. Animals that also feed on birds that have avian influenza such as foxes can also become infected. Although people are rarely infected, those exposed to sick or dead birds should monitor for respiratory symptoms or conjunctivitis and contact their health provider if symptoms develop within 10 days of exposure to avian influenza viruses. 22News' sister station in Baton Rouge, Louisiana said health officials confirmed the first U.S. human death from bird flu on January 6th. The person was over 65 years old and had contracted the virus after exposure to a combination of a non-commercial backyard flock and wild birds. Local News Headlines Thrift store in Westfield holds grand opening this week Northampton awarded grants for substance use disorder Springfield organizations recognized for cultural grants Injured hawk rescued by Chicopee Police WWLP-22News, an NBC affiliate, began broadcasting in March 1953 to provide local news, network, syndicated, and local programming to western Massachusetts. Watch the 22News Digital Edition weekdays at 4 p.m. on WWLP.com.