Five people in Europe died from ‘parrot fever’ recently. This shocking WHO study has pet and bird lovers panicked. What causes parrot fever and how to prevent it? We will cover the causes, symptoms, and treatment of this deadly disease to address this growing health issue.
What’s parrot fever?
Dr. Monalisa Sahu, Consultant Infectious Diseases, Yashoda Hospitals Hyderabad, said parrot fever, commonly known as psittacosis or Chlamydia psittaci infection, is a bacterial infection. It mostly infects parrots, parakeets, cockatiels, and pigeons but can also infect people. Diseased birds’ droppings and secretions can spread the pathogen through dust.
How can parrot fever affect humans?
The bacteria can cause flu-like symptoms such fever, chills, headache, muscle pains, and fatigue. More severe cases may cause pneumonia and respiratory difficulties.
What causes this disease?
Birds carry most Chlamydia psittaci. Infected birds’ droppings, feathers, or respiratory secretions can infect people. The sickness is more common in vets, bird breeders, and pet store personnel. Poor immune systems or respiratory diseases increase parrot fever risk.
Common Symptoms of parrot fever:
- Chills, fever
- Headache
- Myalgia
- An occasional rash
- Muscle aches
- Dry coughing
- Vomiting, nausea
- Breathing issues
- Severe pneumonia
Parrot fever diagnosis
The disorder is usually diagnosed by clinical symptoms, exposure to birds or their secretions and droppings, and blood antibodies.
Treatment for parrot fever?
Early diagnosis lets parrot fever patients get antibiotics. Doxycycline and erythromycin are the most common drugs for this illness. Severe pneumonia may necessitate hospitalization for IV antibiotics and assistance.
Is parrot fever preventable?
Cleanliness when handling or working near birds prevents parrot fever best. After handling birds or cages, wash your hands, avoid touching your face, and wear gloves and a mask while cleaning cages or handling sick birds.
Along with these precautions, educate yourself and others about parrot fever. If you handle birds, recognize the symptoms and get medical attention.
