Definition

Psittacosis is an infection. It is passed to humans from birds. It may cause flu-like symptoms.

Bacteria as Seen Through Microscope Copyright © Nucleus Medical Media, Inc.

Causes

Psittacosis is caused by a specific bacteria. The bacteria is usually passed to people from a sick bird. It may be inhaled through the dust of dried bird droppings from the sick bird. It can also pass when a person touches his or her mouth to the beak of an infected bird.

The bacteria can pass from one person to another. This is rare.

Risk Factors

Contact with a pet bird increases the risk of psittacosis. A sick bird may have feather loss and runny eyes. There may also be a change in eating habits and diarrhea. Birds that pass infection may also appear well.

Certain occupations increase the risk of this infection including:

• Veterinarian
• Zoo worker
• Laboratory worker
• Farmer
• Poultry plant worker

Birds most often associated with psittacosis infection in people include:

• Parrots
• Macaws
• Cockatiels
• Parakeets
• Turkeys and other poultry
• Pigeons

Symptoms

Psittacosis may cause:

• Headache
• Cough
• Fever
• Chills
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Chest pain
• Rash

Diagnosis

You will be asked about your symptoms and health history. The doctor may ask if you have been around animals like birds. A physical exam will be done.

A blood test can confirm the diagnosis. Other body fluids, such as sputum, may be tested. A chest x-ray may be done to check your lungs.

Treatment

Psittacosis is treated with antibiotics.

Sometimes severe breathing problems may occur. This is rare but may require a stay in the hospital. Oxygen will make breathing easier. IV antibiotics will also be given. It will speed delivery of medicine.

Prevention

To help reduce your chances of psittacosis:

• Keep your mouth away from a bird’s beak.
• Buy pet birds from a dealer with an exotic bird permit.
• If you have two or more birds, keep their cages apart.
• Keep new birds away from other birds for 4-6 weeks.
• Clean bird cages, food bowls, and water bowls every day. Disinfect them every week. Use bleach or rubbing alcohol.
• Avoid birds that appear to be sick.
• If your bird appears to be sick, take it to a vet right away.
• Take precaution if you care for a sick bird. Wear a mask and protective clothing. This includes gloves and eye wear.