A warning from the state about the bird flu.

The Department of Environmental Conservation says although avian flu poses a low risk to humans, you could still catch it.

Those who experience close, unexpected exposure to birds with the disease are at risk.

Avoid contact with sick or dead birds and mammals, according to officials.

The disease is more common during this time of year.

"The cold temperatures of winter preserve the virus and keep it viable, opposed to the warmer months of summer, the higher temperatures inactivate the virus and make it non-viable, so we see fewer cases in the summer,” says DEC research scientist, Kevin Hynes.

If you suspect cases of bird flu, you're urged to report it to the state.