Psittacosis, a respiratory bacterial infection also known as parrot fever, has killed five people across Europe this year. Bird infections caused by Chlamydophila psittaci (C. psittaci) can also spread to humans if they ingest particles from their feathers or dried feces. Four people have died in Denmark and one in the Netherlands due to the disease; Dozens of people have been hospitalized in Austria, Germany and Sweden, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). People infected with parrotfish may have pneumonia-like symptoms including cough, difficulty breathing and chest pain. Fever, muscle pain, headache and gastronomical symptoms may also appear. (Also Read | Indians faced worse lung damage than others after Covid, study says; How to improve lung function)
According to WHO, it is rare for people to spread the bacteria that causes psittacosis to other humans and the likelihood of human-to-human transmission of the disease is low. If correctly diagnosed, this pathogen can be treated with antibiotics.
“Parrot fever, also known as psittacosis, is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. This infection primarily affects birds, especially parrots, pigeons, and poultry. But it can also spread to humans through airborne particles contaminated with bacteria, says Dr Neha Rastogi, consultant, infectious diseases, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurugram.
“Chlamydia psittaci, a rare infectious disease, is the cause of parrot fever, sometimes called psittacosis. Birds are the main victims, especially parrots, pigeons and chickens, but also humans who ingest diseased birds or their droppings. People who come in contact with it can also contract it. Become sick. Humans can contract parrot fever by inhaling airborne particles contaminated with the bacteria, such as dust from feathers or bird feces. The disease can spread through diseased birds. Or it can also spread through direct contact with their secretions,” says Dr Saibal Chakraborty, senior consultant – internal medicine, Metro Hospital Noida.
symptoms
“Although the symptoms of parrot fever can vary greatly between people, they often include symptoms similar to fever, headache, chills, muscle aches, cough, shortness of breath, and pneumonia. In extreme situations, it can result in myocarditis, Or there may be inflammation of the heart, muscle, or other neurological symptoms,” says Dr. Chakraborty.
Dr. Rastogi explained in detail about the symptoms, causes and treatment of parrot fever:
Respiratory symptoms: Parrot fever usually manifests with pneumonia-like symptoms, including cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain.
Fever and chills: Patients may experience high fever along with chills and sweat.
Muscle pain and fatigue: Generalized weakness, muscle pain and fatigue are common symptoms.
headache and body ache: Individuals suffering from parrot fever may experience headaches and body aches similar to flu-like illnesses.
Gastrointestinal symptoms: Some patients may develop gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain.
Reason
bacterial transmissionParrot fever is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, which infects birds. Humans usually contract infection through dried bird droppings, respiratory secretions, or feather dust contaminated with bacteria.
direct contact: Although less common, transmission can occur through direct contact with infected birds or their tissues, such as during cleaning of cages or handling infected birds.
Treatment/Management
Antibiotic medicines: Treatment usually includes antibiotics such as doxycycline or tetracycline, which are effective against Chlamydia psittaci. These antibiotics are usually given orally for a period of two to three weeks.
Symptomatic relief: Over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce fever, muscle aches, and headaches.
supportive care: Adequate rest, hydration and a nutritious diet can support the body’s immune system in fighting infection.
Prevention: Proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands thoroughly after handling birds or cleaning their cages, and avoiding inhaling dust from birds’ feathers or droppings, can help prevent the transmission of parrot fever.
“Doctors may prefer antibiotics to treat parrot fever depending on the severity of the condition. When it comes to eliminating Chlamydia psittaci bacteria, these medications are generally effective. Extent and treatment of infection Depending on the patient’s response to the disease, the duration of treatment is determined. Antibiotic therapy can last for several weeks. To treat the symptoms and consequences of parrot fever, supportive care in addition to medications may be required. This may include taking medications that ease symptoms, suppressing coughs and getting enough water. Those who handle animals or birds in a work environment such as an aviary or poultry farm, taking precautions to avoid future illnesses. “This includes washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with sick birds, and wearing gloves and a mask when cleaning bird cages or caring for unwell birds,” says Dr Chakraborty. Are.