Nahant released a public health announcement after receiving reports of dead birds found in the vicinity of Short Beach. The release advises residents not to touch the birds as well as to keep pets leashed and away from them.

Town Administrator Tony Barletta said a central cause of the deaths has yet to be confirmed. However, the United States Department of Agriculture and Massachusetts Division of Fisheries and Wildlife both believe that it could be the result of Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. Barletta noted that Nahant is not the only community dealing with the issue.

If one comes in contact with a deceased bird, USDA advises extensive disinfecting of clothing and shoes, as HPAI spreads easily on contaminated surfaces.

“Prepare a solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water and submerge shoes in the solution for 10 minutes,” the USDA said in a statement. “Spray your shoes with a benzalkonium chloride-based commercial disinfectant and allow them to dry.”

MassWildlife revealed that preliminary tests on birds from Nahant came back “non-negative,” which is consistent with the standard for birds infected with HPAI. Those same samples were recently submitted to the National Veterinary Services Laboratory for further tests. Results are expected within a month’s time.

According to MassWildlife, both wild and domesticated birds can become infected with HPAI. The public should avoid contact with wild birds or handling any dead birds, or birds showing signs of illness. Birds could also be infected with HPAI without showing any clinical signs.