State officials say the highly pathogenic avian influenza – more commonly known as bird flu – is widespread in much of the state.

The finding indicates that the virus, known as H5N1, has spilled from birds into cows at least twice — leading to these two sets of infections — and that it could continue to do so. It also suggests that the virus may pose a persistent risk to cows and to the people who work closely with them.

There have not been any cases among commercial flocks in Massachusetts, said Agricultural Commissioner Ashley Randle.

The strain of bird flu is distinct from what has previously been found in dairy cattle. The finding means the virus has again spilled over from birds to cows, and it raises some worrying questions.

A version of the avian influenza virus different from the one rampaging through herds since last spring has been detected in dairy cows in Nevada, USDA says.

Bird flu hits Nevada as its effects remain visible at grocery stores. Susanne Rust hated to say it, but she did: “I think the H5N1 bird flu outbreak is going to continue to pest

Cases in avian influenza, better known as bird flu, are continuing to rise nationwide. In New York, the virus has primarily affected geese and raptors. But with one human death reported out of Louisiana,

The detection indicates that distinct forms of the virus known as Type A H5N1 have spilled over from wild birds into cattle at least twice. Experts said it raises new questions about wider spread and the difficulty of controlling infections in animals and the people who work closely with them.

The new strain, D1.1, is different from the strain, B3.13, that has been detected in other dairy herds throughout the country, but has been connected to serious infections in humans.

"I think the length of the road before [we see] a mutation that allows easier entry into our lungs is much shorter than people think."