AI Generated Image

More than 445 birds euthanized after strain of bird flu detected at Providence business

WJAR • June 15, 2026 • health

Key Points:

Over 445 birds at Antonelli Poultry in Providence were euthanized after the H5N1 strain of avian influenza was detected during routine USDA testing.
All samples from the birds tested positive, indicating widespread infection among chickens, ducks, and guinea fowl on the farm.
The virus likely originated outside Rhode Island, introduced through out-of-state dealers, and is primarily spread by migratory wild birds.
The Rhode Island Department of Health reports low risk to humans, with no known human-to-human transmission, and is monitoring farm workers who remain in good health.
Antonelli Poultry is expected to reopen on June 19 after the infected birds were humanely euthanized and disposed of.