Psittacosis, or “parrot fever,” was first identified during a pandemic in 1929-1930 that affected over 700 people worldwide.1 This rare but potentially deadly disease is back in the spotlight as Europe grapples with an unusual outbreak that has claimed five lives since 2023.
Health authorities are closely monitoring this concerning rise in infections across several countries, including Austria, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden.
As the outbreak continues into 2024, experts advise caution for bird owners and handlers to prevent further spread of this dangerous zoonotic disease.
What is Parrot Fever?
Parrot fever, also known as psittacosis or ornithosis, is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. Despite its name, it can be carried by many types of birds, not just parrots. When birds shed the bacteria through respiratory secretions or droppings, humans can breathe it in and become infected.
In humans, parrot fever causes flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, and cough. It can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, inflammation of the brain or heart, and even death in rare cases. Prompt treatment with antibiotics is crucial.
The bacteria that cause parrot fever are found worldwide and infect over 450 bird species. Psittacine birds like parrots, parakeets, macaws and cockatiels are especially prone to carrying the bacteria. Poultry like turkeys and ducks, as well as pigeons, can also harbor the infection.(ref)
The European Outbreak
The current outbreak, which began in late 2023, has impacted Austria, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands and Sweden. Many cases have been linked to exposure to infected pet birds or wild birds, often through cleaning bird feeders or handling sick animals. However, some patients reported no known bird contact at all.
Denmark has been hit especially hard, with 23 cases, 17 hospitalizations, and 4 deaths as of late February 2024. One fatal case was traced back to an infected pet bird. Typically, less than 1 in 100 cases of parrot fever result in death, but this outbreak is proving unusually severe.
Austria, which normally sees just 2 cases per year, reported 14 confirmed cases in 2023 and 4 more in early 2024. Germany saw 14 cases in 2023 and 5 more this year, with most patients developing pneumonia. The Netherlands noted 21 cases from December to February, double the usual rate. Sweden observed 26 cases in late 2023, a surge compared to previous years.(ref)
Symptoms & Diagnosis in Birds
In birds, symptoms of parrot fever can include:
- Poor appetite and weight loss
- Ruffled feathers and sleepiness
- Eye or nose discharge
- Diarrhea and discolored droppings (green or yellow-green)
Some infected birds may show no symptoms at all but can still spread the bacteria for months.
Symptoms & Diagnosis in Humans
In humans, parrot fever resembles the flu or pneumonia. Symptoms usually appear about 5-19 days after exposure and can include:
- Fever and chills
- Headache
- Muscle and joint pain
- Dry cough
- Weakness and fatigue
- Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Doctors diagnose parrot fever using blood tests, sputum cultures, and chest x-rays. They look for antibodies against C. psittaci bacteria and signs of pneumonia. Patients should always mention any bird contact to their doctor if they develop these symptoms.
Treatment & Prevention
Antibiotics like tetracycline or doxycycline are highly effective at treating parrot fever. Most people fully recover, although it may be slow in the elderly, very young, or those with other health issues. Even with proper treatment, the disease can occasionally be fatal.
No vaccine against parrot fever exists, and prior infection does not provide lasting immunity. This means people who regularly handle birds can get sick repeatedly.
To reduce the risk of parrot fever, experts recommend:
- Buying birds from reputable sources that test for the disease
- Quarantining new birds for 30 days before introducing them to other pets
- Keeping cages clean and avoiding overcrowding
- Wearing gloves and a mask when cleaning cages or handling potentially infected birds
- Seeking prompt treatment from a veterinarian if your bird appears ill
- Thoroughly washing hands with soap and water after touching birds or their droppings
- Wetting surfaces before cleaning cages to avoid stirring up infectious dust
- Positioning cages to prevent the spread of feces between them
- Providing good ventilation in rooms with bird cages
While the overall risk to the public remains low according to the World Health Organization, this outbreak is a sobering reminder of the close link between human and animal health. By staying informed and taking precautions, bird lovers can help protect themselves and their feathered friends from this potentially deadly disease.
Source:
Read Next:
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.