Waterfowl birds and their predators are especially at risk of contracting H5N1. Massachusetts has not yet reported a human case of the virus.

State officials say the highly pathogenic avian influenza – more commonly known as bird flu – is widespread in much of the state.

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 current bird flu outbreak in Massachusetts is the largest the state has ever seen. Here's why officials believe it has become so widespread and what residents should do to protect themselves (and their pets).

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

A Massachusetts biopharma giant is at the center of preparations already underway if bird flu mutates and begins to find humans as hospitable hosts.