Psittacosis

Psittacosis (also known as ornithosis and parrot fever) is an uncommon human disease caused by the bacteria called Chlamydophila psittaci. It is usually transmitted to humans from birds, normally those in the parrot family, such as parrots, lorikeets, galahs, cockatoos and budgerigars.

However, the bacteria may also be found in other species of bird including pigeons and canaries. Both wild and domesticated birds can carry the bacteria, and some infected birds do not show any symptoms.

Symptoms

Psittacosis tends to produce a non-specific illness.

Symptoms can be mild or moderate and may include:

• fever
• headache
• rash
• muscle aches
• chills
• dry (non-productive) cough.

Occasionally more serious complications affecting the heart, liver, lungs or brain may occur.

The time from contact with the bacteria to the development of symptoms is usually about one to four weeks.

How psittacosis is spread

Humans can catch the disease by inhaling the bacteria found in dried bird droppings/secretions and the dust from feathers of infected birds. The bacteria may survive in bird dust for several months. Person-to-person transmission is rare but has occurred.

Who is at risk of infection

People most at risk are those who have contact with birds, including people who have birds as pets, poultry workers, and people working in aviaries or pet shops. There have been reports of some people developing psittacosis without having close contact with any birds.

Anyone can get psittacosis, however older adults and pregnant women may be more susceptible to severe illness if infected.

Diagnosis

Your doctor can diagnose psittacosis by assessing the symptoms, the results of an examination, and test results. Tests may include a chest x-ray and blood tests.

Treatment

Psittacosis is usually treated with antibiotics. Although the symptoms may ease within a few days of starting antibiotics, it is important that the full course (all tablets) are taken as prescribed by your doctor.

Prevention

In addition to treating infected people, the spread of disease can be controlled by treating infected birds with antibiotics and ensuring that the environment in which they live is thoroughly cleaned.

Protective clothing, including masks and gloves, should be worn when cleaning the cages of potentially infected birds. It can be difficult to tell if a bird is infected, if you are concerned, a veterinarian should examine your bird.

In order to prevent illness, the following measures are recommended:

• Wash your hands with soap and running water before and after handling pet birds.
• Avoid kissing (mouth-to-beak contact with) pet birds.
• Birds should be housed in clean cages of ample size and lined with newspaper (that is changed frequently). Do not allow faecal material (bird poo) to accumulate, dry up or become airborne.
• Before cleaning the cage: wear a P2 mask and gloves, and dampen any bird droppings or cages. Make sure you wash your hands after completion.
• When dealing with infected birds, gloves, a P2 mask and protective clothing should be worn.

More information

Psittacosis is a notifiable disease. For more information about psittacosis, contact your GP or call the Health Protection Service, Communicable Disease Control Information Line during business hours on 02 5124 9213.