EFFINGHAM, Ill. (WCIA) — The Effingham County Health Department is warning the public that a bird in their community recently tested positive for Avian Influenza.

On Feb. 11, a hawk was collected in Effingham County and submitted for testing at the University of Illinois Veterinary Diagnostic Testing Lab. On Feb. 14, the health department was informed that the bird had tested positive for Avian Influenza.

The health department assured the community that the public health risk is low, but they are monitoring the situation carefully. And, they are working with local and state partners at this time, to assess the risk between people and the affected bird.

At this time, the health department asks that people avoid direct contact with wild birds. And they remind the public not to handle or capture waterfowl or other wild birds that are sick.

For more information about Bird Flu, visit the CDC’s website.