Our staff, interns and
volunteers here at the World Bird Sanctuary go to great lengths to make sure
all of our birds are happy and healthy. We are lucky to have veterinarians who
assist us in learning about potential diseases and in keeping a close eye on
our birds.
Psitticosis is
most commonly associated with Parrots, thus the name Parrot Fever (photo: Gay
Schroer)
One disease that may be of
particular interest to our readers who are bird owners is known as Psittacosis,
or “Parrot Fever.” Contrary to the way it sounds, “Parrot Fever” is not the
overwhelming desire to purchase or own many pet birds! It is a disease that was
discovered in 1879 by Robert Koch, and is caused by a bacteria known as Clamydia
psittaci. The name, Psittacosis,
is derived from the Greek word for parrot, psittakos.
Although named for the
parrot family (and sometimes identified in parrots, especially those that have
been imported), many species of birds can contract this disease, including even
chickens and pigeons. Symptoms in birds may include respiratory signs like
nasal discharge, sneezing, or wheezing; there may also be gastrointestinal
signs like loss of interest in food and discolored droppings. Birds with
Psittacosis may have other signs and symptoms as well, like lethargy (acting
sluggish) and weight loss, and sometimes birds
may have very little in the way of symptoms, but still have the disease within
them.
Other species
that can contract this disease, including pigeons, chickens and even humans
(photo: Melissa Moore)
The good news is that
Psittacosis can be diagnosed with tests administered by your avian
veterinarian, and it is treatable with a course of antibiotics. I am not aware
of any vaccine for Psittacosis at this time, but the disease is considered
fairly rare. It is important to be aware of this disease, since it is considered a zoonotic disease, meaning that it
can be transmitted to humans. If you have any questions about Psittacosis in
humans, please talk with your family doctor.
Like most other avian
diseases, “Parrot Fever” is generally not something most of us at World Bird
Sanctuary or most of our readers may ever encounter. However, it is good to be
informed, especially about those animals that are near and dear to our hearts,
and often live with us in our homes.
Here are some online
references to check out about Psittacosis:
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Submitted by Melissa
Moore, World Bird Sanctuary Chief of Operations in Education
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