The City of Alpena reminds people to stay away from birds that are dead or appear sick due to the spread of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza in wild bird populations in Michigan.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources announced in March the findings of the disease in birds, which is mainly found in waterfowl and raptors but can affect many other bird species.

If you do come in contact with a sick or dead bird or feces, please wash your hands with soap and warm water.