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What is psittacosis pneumonia?
Psittacosis is an infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci, which is rife among birds. Although the term first appeared after an epidemic of parrot fever in the 1930s, the organism can be caught from many other types of birds; commonly (in the UK) from pigeons and budgerigars.
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Causes and risk factors
In many cities, a large proportion of wild pigeons carry the bacteria. It's very infectious and spreads easily, not just to humans, but also to other animals.
Psittacosis is an occupational hazard for all those working with birds, from poultry farmers to chicken factory workers, pet shop owners and vets.
In humans, Chlamydia psittaci usually causes a form of pneumonia. In fact, experts think this particular infection is under-diagnosed, and that it may be the cause of one in 20 cases of pneumonia caught out in the community (rather than in hospital).
Contact with birds is a factor in only about one in three cases, although, because prolonged contact isn't necessary, many people simply can't remember any contact with birds.
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Symptoms
Symptoms may come on suddenly or slowly and include:
.
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Treatment and recovery
It's quite difficult to diagnose psittacosis, and all the usual tests may be negative. But, once the doctor has guessed the possible diagnosis, and sent off blood for specific tests, the answer soon becomes clear. In a few places, sputum can now be tested instead of blood.
Most people get better rapidly on antibiotics, usually tetracycline. These must be taken for at least two to three weeks because the condition can relapse. Very occasionally, psittacosis causes more severe illness, and can even be fatal.
Psittacosis is an infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci, which is rife among birds. Although the term first appeared after an epidemic of parrot fever in the 1930s, the organism can be caught from many other types of birds; commonly (in the UK) from pigeons and budgerigars.
Top
Causes and risk factors
In many cities, a large proportion of wild pigeons carry the bacteria. It's very infectious and spreads easily, not just to humans, but also to other animals.
Psittacosis is an occupational hazard for all those working with birds, from poultry farmers to chicken factory workers, pet shop owners and vets.
In humans, Chlamydia psittaci usually causes a form of pneumonia. In fact, experts think this particular infection is under-diagnosed, and that it may be the cause of one in 20 cases of pneumonia caught out in the community (rather than in hospital).
Contact with birds is a factor in only about one in three cases, although, because prolonged contact isn't necessary, many people simply can't remember any contact with birds.
Top
Symptoms
Symptoms may come on suddenly or slowly and include:
.
Top
Treatment and recovery
It's quite difficult to diagnose psittacosis, and all the usual tests may be negative. But, once the doctor has guessed the possible diagnosis, and sent off blood for specific tests, the answer soon becomes clear. In a few places, sputum can now be tested instead of blood.
Most people get better rapidly on antibiotics, usually tetracycline. These must be taken for at least two to three weeks because the condition can relapse. Very occasionally, psittacosis causes more severe illness, and can even be fatal.