Researchers have discovered several positive cases of bird flu amongst animals in New York City's parks. The news comes amidst an outbreak of avian flu, or H5N1, across the US in recent weeks.

So far, the virus has spread to 48 states, with seven states reporting cases amongst dairy herds. A rare human infection was also confirmed in Texas.

A new study has revealed that the virus may also present amongst a number of New York City birds. Researchers from Mount Sinai Hospital published findings from a two-year-long study this week that showed positive tests for bird flu in Manhattan, the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn.

Dr Philip Meade, a co-author of the study, told ABC 7: "We detected six viruses in birds that were the New York City area. We found them in green spaces, even in Manhattan where a chicken was running loose."

H5N1 was also found in geese in the Bronx, Queens, and Brooklyn. Other affected animals included a red-tailed hawk and a peregrine falcon.

The researchers recommended staying away from any sick animals they come across and to wear gloves and a mask if they need to approach one.

They said: "We believe it is important for the public to understand that H5N1 may be present in birds, as well as their feces and other secretions in urban spaces. Sick or weirdly behaving birds should be reported to the authorities and only be handled by professionals.

"Pets should be kept away from urban wildlife. The presence of the virus poses a low but non-zero risk for humans and pets. More awareness about the presence of this virus in the urban animal-human interface is needed."

The New York City Health Department confirmed that the virus had been found in the area and asked that anyone who discovers any sick or dead chickens, turkeys and other poultry call the NYS Department of Agriculture and Markets at 518-457-3502.

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