What is Parrot Fever that has claimed 5 lives in Europe

Studies indicate that human-to-human transmission is improbable but not impossible

A recent outbreak of deadly parrot fever also known as psittacosis has impacted several European countries claiming at least 5 lives till now.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), four deaths were reported from Denmark, and one in the Netherlands.

Most of the cases are being reported from Germany, Sweden, Austria, Denmark, and the Netherlands and people in most cases were in contact with either pet or wild birds, said WHO.

As per reports, the outbreak was initially identified in 2023 and has continued since the beginning of this year.

Here’s all we know about the infection.

*What is parrot fever or psittacosis ?

Acute respiratory infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydophila psittaci is known as parrot fever or pustacosis, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Many domestic and wild birds are infected with the bacteria.

According to reports, infected birds expel the infection through their breath or feces even though they do not usually look unwell.

How is it transmitted?
According to Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, humans usually get parrot fever by inhaling dust from the secretions of an infected bird. Bird bites and beak-to-mouth contact can also infect humans.

Studies indicate that human-to-human transmission is improbable but not impossible.

There have been reports of some people developing psittacosis despite having no recognised contact at all with birds.

Symptoms of parrot fever
A week to a month is the incubation period for psittacosis after exposure. Symptoms may include:
1.Fever
2.Headache
3.General malaise
4.Muscle aches
5.A dry cough
6.Shortness of breath.

Who is most at risk?
According to reports, people most likely to have psittacosis are those who work with poultry, own pets, or work in aviaries or pet stores.

Preventative seasures

1.Avoid unnecessary handling of sick birds.

2. Avoid inhaling dust from dried bird droppings, feathers, or cage.
   3.Separate the unwell birds from the group.
   4.Give the right medications to diseased birds for at least a month.
   5.Since the germs can survive for several months in fallen feathers and droppings, clean cages using the proper disinfectants.
   6.When cleaning the cages, put on gloves and a mask to avoid getting sick.
   7.To reduce the chance of floating dander, clean the cages frequently with lots of water.

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