Some birds infected with avian influenza have been found on the Hawaiian islands, according to the state Department of Health.

A native Hawaiian duck discovered on Kauai on Nov. 26 is the third presumed case of avian influenza H5N1 in the state, the department said. The bird was likely infected by migratory ducks. The department said one duck on Maui and another on Oʻahu were also found to have avian influenza in November 2024.

With migratory bird season underway, the department cautioned the public against touching or handling wild birds. Human infections from the H5N1 avian influenza virus are uncommon but can occur following close contact with infected birds, the department said.