A bird in Hendersonville, N.C., tested positive for bird flu after several birds were found dead at Osceloa Lake last week, health officials said Tuesday. 

One of five dead birds found along a privately owned lake was tested for bird flu, and the test came back positive, according to the Henderson County Department of Public Health. 

It comes as bird flu cases are rising across the nation, causing egg prices to soar. 

Related article: Medical experts share concerns as bird flu cases rise

The health department said it provided guidance to the owner and others who used the lake where the dead birds were found. "The owner has also posted signage at the lake stating contact with birds should be avoided," health officials said. 

Bird flu is a disease that can affect most species of birds and some mammals, according to the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services. These viruses naturally spread among wild aquatic birds worldwide and can also infect domestic poultry and other birds and animals, health officials said.

The risk of bird flu spreading to humans is low, according to health officials, and most cases happen when someone has direct contact with an infected bird or their feces.

"Avian influenza viruses rarely infect people," NCDHHS officials said.

Symptoms of bird flu include fever, cough, shortness of breath, runny nose and red, irritated eyes.

"Birds, their feces and saliva should be avoided by the public," health officials urge. "People should avoid contact with sick or dead animals."

If a dead bird needs to be disposed of, health officials recommend wearing gloves or using a plastic bag turned inside out. Those who have direct contact with wild birds or sick animals are also advised to wear protective equipment. 

"Wild birds can be infected with the virus even if they don't look sick," Health Department officials said.

If you do come in contact with a sick bird without gloves, health officials recommend monitoring yourself for 10 days for flu symptoms. If symptoms develop, call your doctor or the Health Department, at 828-692-4223, for testing. The public can also call the N.C. Wildlife Interaction Helpline at 866-318-2401.

Click here for a list of bird flu cases in North Carolina over the past few years.