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.

A case of avian influenza, also known as bird flu, has been confirmed at a commercial poultry farm in Norfolk. The highly pathogenic virus was detected at a premises near Loddon, the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) said.

The Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture confirmed the positive case Monday in a 50,000-bird layer chicken flock on a commercial poultry farm in Lehigh County.

A flock of turkeys has tested positive for high-path avian influenza, marking the second case in the state this year.

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.