Is bird poop harmless?

Bird poop may seem harmless, but it can actually pose certain hazards to human health. There are several diseases associated with bird droppings, including cryptococcosis and histoplasmosis caused by fungi, and psittacosis caused by bacteria. It is important to be aware of these hazards and take precautions when encountering bird droppings.

Diseases Associated with Bird Droppings

1. Cryptococcosis and Histoplasmosis: These fungi occur naturally in soil and can develop in bird droppings that are associated with soil. Cryptococcosis primarily affects individuals with compromised immune systems and can lead to symptoms such as meningitis, severe headache, mental disturbances, fever, blurred vision, and cough. Histoplasmosis may not cause symptoms in most individuals, but when symptoms do occur, they can vary widely depending on the form of the disease. The acute form is characterized by respiratory symptoms, general malaise, fever, chest pains, and a dry, non-productive cough. The chronic form resembles pulmonary tuberculosis and progresses over months or years.

2. Psittacosis: This bacterial infection is found only in bird droppings and secretions. Symptoms of psittacosis may include a low-grade fever that worsens with the progression of the disease, anorexia, sore throat, light sensitivity, and a severe headache.

How Exposure Occurs

Exposure to these diseases can occur when bird droppings are disturbed or become airborne. The act of cleaning up bird droppings can cause contaminants to become airborne, increasing the risk of inhalation. Therefore, individuals who work in or clean up heavily contaminated areas should take precautions to minimize exposure.

Precautions to Prevent Exposure

To prevent exposure to diseases associated with bird droppings, it is important to follow these precautions:

1. Avoid sweeping, vacuuming, or disturbing droppings whenever possible. If you can, avoid these areas entirely.
2. Wear non-latex rubber gloves when handling bird droppings.
3. Mix a disinfectant solution of 1 part bleach to 10 parts water.
4. Thoroughly soak the droppings with the disinfectant solution using a spray bottle or a clean pesticide application sprayer.
5. After the droppings are thoroughly wet, clean them up with a mop, sponge, or rag that has also been soaked in the disinfectant solution.
6. Place the contaminated material in a plastic bag and seal it. Then, place the sealed bag into a second plastic bag, seal it, and dispose of it in the regular trash.
7. Disinfect or throw away the gloves that were used.
8. Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water.

For large areas with a significant amount of droppings, additional precautions should be taken, such as wearing a NIOSH-approved respirator with HEPA filter cartridges, eye protection, disposable coveralls, and shoe coverings or washable clothing with rubber boots. Fit testing and training are required prior to respirator use.

Ongoing Bird and Bat Control

To prevent bird droppings from accumulating and posing a health risk, it is important to implement ongoing bird and bat control measures. Birds often roost in protected areas, such as entryways, where their droppings become unsightly and hazardous. Similarly, bats can also create health risks with their droppings.

To control birds and bats, it is recommended to block their access to indoor roosts and breeding places. This can be achieved by screening or plugging their entryways in enclosed areas or using “porcupine” wire or other acceptable devices in open areas. It is important to avoid any measures that may harm or kill birds or bats unnecessarily.

In conclusion, bird poop is not harmless and can carry diseases that can affect human health. It is crucial to take precautions when encountering bird droppings, especially when cleaning up heavily contaminated areas. If you need assistance with bird poop cleaning and control measures, please contact Bird Poop Cleaning at [hello@khunclean.com] or [082-797-3702].

*Note: The information provided is based on expert knowledge in the domain of bird poop cleaning and health risks associated with bird droppings.