Can you get Chlamydia from a parrot?

Chlamydia psittaci is a bacterium that can be transmitted from pet birds to hu- mans. In humans, the resulting infection is referred to as psittacosis (also known as parrot disease, parrot fever, and ornithosis).

What are the symptoms of Chlamydia in birds?

The clinical signs may include anorexia, lethargy, ruffled feathers, serous or mucopurulent oculonasal discharge, and weight loss. Some birds develop respiratory signs ranging from sneezing to respiratory distress. Conjunctivitis and diarrhea with green to yellowish droppings may also be seen.

How do pet birds get Chlamydia?

C. psittaci can be passed from bird to bird as well as from bird to human, usually by inhaling or ingesting contaminated fecal matter or dust.

Can birds pass Chlamydia to humans?

Psittacosis is caused in humans by exposure to the bacterium, Chlamydia psittaci, which is most often transmitted to humans from infected birds, especially parrots and poultry, especially turkeys.

Is bird Chlamydia the same as human Chlamydia?

​Avian chlamydiosis is a bacterial disease caused by Chlamydia psittaci, which is carried commonly by birds. Humans can catch the disease by breathing in dust containing dried saliva, feathers, mucous and droppings from infected birds. Infection in humans is called psittacosis.

How do you test for Chlamydia in birds?

A confirmed diagnosis of chlamydiosis in a live bird is sometimes difficult and depends on the species of bird, length of time since exposure, and general condition of the bird. The most commonly used diagnostic tests include the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, serology, and culture of the organism.

How do I know if I have psittacosis?

What are the symptoms of psittacosis and when do they appear? In humans, the symptoms are fever, headache, chills, muscle pains, cough, and sometimes breathing difficulty or pneumonia. If left untreated, the disease can be severe, and even result in death, especially in older people.

Are chlamydia curable?

Yes, chlamydia can be cured with the right treatment. It is important that you take all of the medication your doctor prescribes to cure your infection. When taken properly it will stop the infection and could decrease your chances of having complications later on.

How can psittacosis be prevented?

One important aspect of preventing psittacosis is to control infection among birds. Keep cages clean; clean cages and food and water bowls daily. Position cages so that food, feathers, and droppings cannot spread between them (i.e., do not stack cages, use solid-sided cases or barriers if cages are next to each other).

Is it OK to kiss your bird?

Do you love your bird? That’s good but you shouldn’t get carried away with your affection. For instance, kissing your bird is not healthy and one reason for this is the disease Psittacosis. Psittacosis is a zoonosis, a disease which can be spread from animals (birds in this case) to humans.

Is there a blood test for psittacosis?

Clinicians can use a number of tests to determine if someone has psittacosis. These tests include collecting sputum (phlegm), blood or swabs from the nose and/or throat to detect the bacteria.