A dangerous bacterial infection called psittacosis, also known as parrot fever, is causing concern across several European countries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The outbreak, which began in 2023 and has continued into this year, has resulted in the deaths of five individuals.
Parrot fever is caused by bacteria in the Chlamydia family, commonly found in wild and pet birds as well as poultry. Infected birds may not show signs of illness but can spread the bacteria through their secretions, which can be inhaled as dust or through contact.
Humans typically contract parrot fever by inhaling dust containing the bacteria from infected bird secretions. Additionally, direct contact with infected birds, such as through bites or beak-to-mouth contact, can also lead to infection. However, the disease is not transmitted through consuming infected animals.
Although rare, human-to-human transmission of the disease is possible but uncommon. Most recent cases have been linked to exposure to infected domestic or wild birds, according to WHO.
Symptoms of parrot fever in humans usually appear five to 14 days after exposure and can include headache, muscle pain, dry cough, fever, and chills. Fortunately, the infection is treatable with antibiotics and is rarely fatal.
The outbreak has affected several European countries differently. Austria, for example, typically sees only two cases per year but reported 14 confirmed cases in 2023 and four more in the current year as of March 4. None of these cases were linked to travel or contact with wild birds.
Denmark, which usually records 15 to 30 cases annually, has seen a significant increase in cases. With 23 confirmed cases as of February 27, health officials suspect the actual count may be higher. Seventeen of these cases required hospitalization, with four resulting in death.
In Germany, 14 cases were reported in 2023, with an additional five cases this year. Most patients had pneumonia, and 16 required hospitalization. Five of the cases were linked to contact with sick pet birds or chickens.
Sweden has experienced a rising trend in parrot fever cases since 2017. Although there were 26 cases reported in late November and early December, this year’s count stands at 13, which is fewer than in previous years.
Similarly, the Netherlands has seen a surge in cases, with 21 reported between late December and February 29, twice the usual number for this period. All recent cases required hospitalization, with one fatality. Contact with bird droppings, both from domestic and wild birds, was a common factor among the cases.
WHO continues to monitor the outbreak closely, collaborating with affected countries. They advise doctors to remain vigilant for symptoms and urge pet bird owners and bird handlers to practice good hygiene. This includes keeping bird cages clean, avoiding overcrowding, and practicing proper hand hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.
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