Human-to-human transmission is extremely rare. Psittacosis can be mild, moderate or severe; some people may have no symptoms. Older people generally experience more severe reactions. The complications of untreated psittacosis include inflammation of the brain or heart.
What does psittacosis do to humans?
Psittacosis can affect the lungs and may cause inflammatory illness of the lungs (pneumonia). Additional common symptoms include fever, muscle pain (myalgia), headaches, and a dry cough. Psittacosis is caused by infection with the bacterium, Chlamydia psittaci, and may also be known as ornithosis.
How long does human psittacosis last?
Some reports show that inflammation of the liver, lining of the heart cavity, the heart muscle, and the brain can occur. The course of the disease is variable and it can result in death. However, fatal cases are rare. In mild cases, fever may continue for three weeks or more.
Can humans get sick from pet birds?
Psittacosis (also known as ornithosis) is a disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, carried by birds. Humans most commonly catch the disease by inhaling dust containing feathers, secretions and droppings from infected birds.
What are the effects of parrot fever?
Psittacosis-infected birds are asymptomatic (show no symptoms) until they are stressed and then it causes puffy and swollen eyes (conjunctivitis), lethargy, anorexia, weight loss, fluffed feathers, nasal discharge, and an enlarged liver. 3 It can also cause diarrhea and respiratory issues in some species of birds.
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