Evidence suggests that bird flu is widespread in Massachusetts and “likely present even in places where there has not been a confirmed positive,” state officials announced Wednesday.

As the bird flu continues to spread in the U.S., Massachusetts farmers must protect their flocks. But due to the recent rise in the disease, growing and raising their own food on property is a tradition that may have to be put on hold.

State officials suspect the avian flu has killed dozens of wild birds in Boston, Amherst, and Plymouth, and farmers are stepping up precautions.