Do all pigeons carry disease?

Pigeons are often associated with the spread of diseases, and unfortunately, this is true to some extent. Pigeons carry a surprising number of pathogens, with more than 60 different varieties, although it is extremely rare for these to be fatal to humans.

How do pigeons spread disease?

Pigeons transmit diseases through their droppings. It is important to note that we should never touch or pick up pigeon droppings with our hands. However, it is not as simple as avoiding direct contact. Infected droppings are left on streets, windowsills, and cars to dry out. Once they dry, they become a powder that can be blown or kicked into the air, and then inhaled by humans. This inhalation of the powder is one way that the pathogens can be spread.

Common pathogens transmitted by pigeons

According to Medical News Today, some of the most common pathogens that can cause disease when transmitted from pigeons to humans include:

1. E. coli: This occurs when bird droppings contaminate water or food supplies that are consumed by humans. Washing food thoroughly before eating can help prevent this. Symptoms include nausea, fever, and cramps.
2. St. Louis encephalitis: This disease is spread by mosquitoes after they feed on a bird carrying the pathogen. It can be particularly dangerous and even fatal in adults over 60 years old. Symptoms include drowsiness, headache, and fever.
3. Histoplasmosis: This respiratory disease is caused by a fungus growing in pigeon droppings and can be fatal.
4. Candidiasis: This respiratory condition is caused by a fungus or yeast found in droppings. It can affect various areas of the body, including the skin, mouth, respiratory system, intestines, and urogenital tract.
5. Salmonellosis: Commonly known as “food poisoning,” this disease spreads via infected droppings turning into dust and contaminating food and food preparation surfaces prior to consumption.

Pigeons can also carry mites, fleas, and the West Nile virus, all of which can cause discomfort and potentially serious health issues in humans.

How to get rid of pigeons

Besides carrying diseases, pigeons can also cause damage to properties. They can damage buildings, interfere with electrical elements, and air conditioners. Additionally, pigeon droppings are unsanitary and can create slippery and hazardous conditions.

To reduce the risk of disease and keep properties free from pigeon waste, it is important to clean up any visible pigeon droppings as soon as possible. When doing so, it is recommended to use disposable protective clothing, shoe coverings, an air-purifying respirator, and gloves.

Reducing the presence of birds on your property is a proactive measure to prevent the spread of diseases. Bird Poop Cleaning offers various bird control solutions, including control gel, wire barriers, spikes, and shock. Each solution is appropriate for different situations. To learn more about each solution and when to use them, visit our bird control solutions page.

For professional bird poop cleaning services in Bangkok, contact us at hello@khunclean.com or call [082-797-3702]. Our team of experts is ready to sanitize, disinfect, remove, and clean bird poop, bird droppings, eggs, birds, chicks, and nests from balconies, homes, storage areas, and factories. Don’t let the presence of pigeons compromise your health and safety. Act now!