The cases were discovered as part of routine surveillance by the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management.
DEM says the strain of avian flu detected in Rhode Island is not the same strain that has infected people in Asia and Europe since 2003 -- so it does not pose a significant health risk to humans.
However, the agency says the virus can be transmitted to wild birds and domestic poultry flocks. It is urging all poultry owners to employ standard biosecurity and sanitation practices. In particular, they should prevent flocks from having any contact with wild birds.
All poultry owners should have their flocks tested. To schedule an appointment call the DEM's Division of Agriculture/Animal Health Unit at 401-222-2781. There is no charge for the testing.
Source: http://www.wpri.com/Global/story.asp?S=8878640&nav=menu20_3 
