Bird owners should be aware that although their pets might be highly intelligent and fun companions, they can sometimes carry germs that can make people sick. Although rare, germs from birds can cause a variety of illnesses in people, ranging from minor skin infections to serious illnesses.
Can you get sick from handling birds?
Salmonella can be transmitted to people who handle sick or dead birds. Always wear disposable gloves when handling infected birds, and wash your hands after touching a bird feeder or birdbath.
What diseases do birds carry to humans?
Disease in humans may present as cellulitis, bacteremia, endocarditis, encephalitis, and arthritis. Ornithosis, also known as psittacosis, parrot fever and avian chlamydiosis is a bacterial disease caused by Chlamydophila psittaci and is found in parrots, parakeets, turkeys, geese, ducks, pigeons and other birds.
Is bird poop toxic to humans?
Bird droppings are a breeding ground for disease-causing parasites. Not only can these organisms attack the substrata of a building, they can spread disease to humans. One health hazard that is a concern when dealing with bird guano is Histoplasmosis.
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