Psittacosis, also known as ornithosis, is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, which is carried by birds. This uncommon disease can be transmitted to humans from birds through inhalation of dust that contains feathers, secretions, and droppings from infected birds. It is important to note that older individuals may experience more severe illness if they contract psittacosis. However, the good news is that this disease can be effectively treated with antibiotics.
The time between human exposure to the bacteria and the development of symptoms can vary, ranging from about five days to four weeks, with an average of 10 days. Common symptoms experienced by individuals with psittacosis include:
In severe cases, pneumonia may develop. Rare complications of psittacosis can include encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) or myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle).
Infection usually occurs when a person inhales the bacteria found in dried droppings, mucous, and feather dust from infected birds. It is also possible to become infected through mouth-to-beak contact (such as kissing) with birds or by handling the feathers or tissues of infected birds.
Although rare, there have been case reports suggesting transmission through contact with infected aborted material, abnormal equine placentas, or symptomatic foals. It is important to note that while psittacosis can be spread from person to person or from other animals to humans, this happens very rarely.
All birds are susceptible to infection, but pet birds, such as budgies, lorikeets, and cockatiels, are most frequently involved in transmitting the infection to humans. Contact with wild birds and their droppings can also cause infection. Outbreaks have been linked to breathing in dust stirred up by lawn mowers after being contaminated by wild bird droppings.
People who are most at risk of infection with psittacosis include bird owners and/or breeders, pet shop employees, and individuals whose occupation places them at risk for exposure. This includes employees in poultry slaughtering and processing plants, veterinarians, veterinary technicians, laboratory workers, workers in avian quarantine stations, taxidermists, farmers, wildlife rehabilitators, and zoo workers. During outbreaks, even lawn mowing and gardening have been associated with psittacosis.
Birds may carry the infection without showing signs of illness, but it can also be fatal to birds. It is important to monitor for signs such as diarrhea, weakness, ruffled feathers, poor feeding, and runny eyes or nose in your bird. If you are unsure, it is recommended to have a veterinarian examine your bird. Infected birds can respond to treatment in many instances, but they should be isolated and placed on a long course of antibiotic treatment while their cages are disinfected.
When disinfecting bird cages or environments, it is important to use appropriate disinfectants that contain active ingredients such as quaternary ammonium compounds (QACs), 3% hydrogen peroxide, alcoholic iodine solutions, 70% ethanol, or hospital-grade disinfectants based on sodium hypochlorite. It is crucial to prepare a 1:100 dilution (10mL/L) immediately before use and discard it at the end of each disinfection session. Additionally, disinfectants should be used in a well-ventilated area and should not be mixed with any other products.
To minimize the risk of infection, it is advised to:
A doctor can diagnose psittacosis based on symptoms, an examination, and various tests. These tests may include a chest x-ray and taking blood or respiratory samples to test for the bacteria.
Treatment for psittacosis involves a course of antibiotics for up to two weeks. It is important to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by a healthcare professional.
In the event of a psittacosis case, laboratories must confidentially notify the local public health unit. Public health unit staff will then work with the treating doctor and patient or carer to identify the source of infection. Individuals who may have been exposed to an infected bird should be made aware of the symptoms of infection. Treatment for the bird and thorough disinfection of its environment are essential to prevent further spread of infections to other people or birds.
For further information or assistance, please feel free to contact Bird Poop Cleaning at hello@khunclean.com or [082-797-3702].
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