NEW: Avian Flu Confirmed at Antonelli Poultry in…
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Key Points:
- The Rhode Island Department of Health and Department of Environmental Management confirmed the H5N1 avian influenza strain at Antonelli Poultry in Providence during USDA routine testing, leading to the humane euthanasia of 445 asymptomatic birds from out-of-state dealers.
- Antonelli Poultry will remain closed until five days after infected birds are disposed of and the facility is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized, with staff being monitored for 10 days for potential symptoms due to possible exposure.
- The risk of human infection with H5N1 remains low, especially if poultry is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 165°F, but those who purchased poultry from Antonelli between June 9-12 are advised to safely dispose of it.
- RIDOH emphasizes preventive measures such as proper handwashing, avoiding contact with sick or dead birds, and cooking poultry thoroughly to reduce any risk of avian influenza transmission to humans.
- This marks Rhode Island’s first confirmed domestic bird case of avian influenza in 2026, with previous cases reported in noncommercial flocks in 2022 and 2025.