In January 2022, highly pathogenic avian influenza H5 was confirmed in wild, captive, commercial and backyard birds in many states. It was first identified in Nebraska in a wild goose in early March. Multiple wild bird species have contracted the disease since then.

Nebraska reported on Tuesday an outbreak of highly lethal bird flu in a flock of 570,000 chickens being raised for meat. Millions of US broiler chickens being raised for meat, egg-laying chickens and turkeys have been infected with bird flu since February or culled to prevent the spread of the disease.

— People are encouraged to use caution until further notice as avian influenza continues to affect waterfowl and other bird species statewide. Nebraska Game and Parks said affected birds have been reported across the state in recent weeks. Officials have collected waterfowl, including geese and swans, which have been tested for cause of death.