The map of flu activity across the United States continues to darken, both figuratively and literally, as case numbers spike upward in most states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Massachusetts, United States - A man died Monday in Louisiana after contracting the bird flu virus after being exposed to birds. By December the CDC had identified at least 65 human infections of avian flu in the United States,

Massachusetts officials suspect more than 60 birds found dead in Plymouth died from bird flu, though official results may not come for days.

D.W. Field Park, a large park in Brockton and Avon, Massachusetts, was closed on Friday, with officials warning of a potential bird flu outbreak and warning the public not to touch any birds that are dead or hurt.

The number of bird flu cases in Central Massachusetts is relatively low, compared to a swath of the state that runs from Greater Boston to Southeastern Massachusetts. That message was delivered Wednesday during a virtual update from state health officials on the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus.

The leading message coming from Bay State officials this week was that people and pets should stay away from sick or dead wild birds. And if they see any, they should report their observations to MassWildlife.

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.