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.

The number of bird flu cases in Central Massachusetts is relatively low, compared to a swath of the state that runs from Greater Boston to Southeastern Massachusetts. That message was delivered Wednesday during a virtual update from state health officials on the highly pathogenic avian influenza H5N1 virus.

The predominant precipitation type will be rain. However, there will be some snow before all is said and done.

Elevation will play a role with this next system and snow production, with the mountainous regions of Western Mass., New Hampshire and Vermont possibly reaching 3 inches. Some trailing, scattered snow showers on the back edge of the storm will continue through Wednesday’s commute home.