PROVIDENCE, R.I. — A total of 445 birds were euthanized at a market in Providence, Rhode Island, after avian influenza was detected during routine testing, state health and environmental officials announced. The asymptomatic birds were located at Antonelli Poultry.
Business Closure and Staff Monitoring
Antonelli Poultry will remain closed until five days after the birds were disposed of and the entire facility has been cleaned and sanitized. The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) is monitoring all staff at the business for 10 days for symptoms of avian influenza, as they may have been exposed to the virus.
Public Health Recommendations
In response to the outbreak, RIDOH issued several recommendations to prevent foodborne illness and the spread of avian flu. To avoid foodborne illness, the department advised washing hands, utensils, and cutting boards before and after contact with raw poultry, meat, seafood, and eggs. It also recommended keeping raw poultry and meat separate from foods that will not be cooked, such as fruits and vegetables, and cooking food to the proper temperature, verified with a food thermometer, as visual inspection is not sufficient.
To avoid contracting avian flu, RIDOH recommended refraining from direct contact with birds or other animals infected with or suspected of being infected with avian influenza. The public is advised to avoid direct contact with sick or dead wild birds, poultry, or other animals. Touching surfaces or materials contaminated with saliva, mucous, or feces from birds or animals suspected of having avian influenza should also be avoided. Additionally, the department cautioned against consuming raw milk, especially from animals with confirmed or suspected avian influenza, and handling sick or dead wild birds or other animals without personal protective equipment (PPE).
Helene Elliott is the senior reporter for News Raise. She covers Science news. She also has a keen interest in photojournalism. Helene holds a nomination for the prestigious Red Smith Award. She is married to author Dennis D’Agostino, a former publicist with the New York Mets.
