Parrot Fever Outbreak in Europe: Five Deaths Reported
A bacterial infection known as parrot fever has claimed the lives of five individuals in Europe, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). The illness is caused by a bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci (C. psittaci), which is commonly found in birds. The outbreak began in late 2023 and has affected Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and The Netherlands.
The WHO announcement states that “exposure to wild and/or domestic birds was reported in most of the cases.” This suggests that individuals who work closely with birds, such as pet bird owners, poultry workers, veterinarians, and gardeners, are at a higher risk of contracting the infection. The countries affected by the outbreak are currently investigating the sources of exposure and analyzing samples from wild birds that were originally obtained for avian influenza testing.
Despite the severity of the situation, the World Health Organization has assessed the risk posed by this event as low. Dr. Marc Siegel, a clinical professor of medicine at NYU Langone Medical Center, explains that parrot fever is rare in the United States, affecting only about 10 people per year.
So, how does this illness spread? According to Donal Bisanzio, PhD, a senior epidemiologist with RTI International, parrot fever can easily spread among birds when they are in close contact or confined in small spaces. Infected birds may exhibit reduced appetite, lethargy, weight loss, diarrhea, ocular discharge, and breathing issues. Humans can be exposed to the bacteria through contact with infected birds’ secretions or by breathing in airborne dust particles from their droppings and respiratory secretions.
Those at highest risk include people who own birds or work closely with them, such as pet shop employees, poultry farm workers, and veterinarians. Bisanzio advises pet owners to have newly acquired birds or birds showing symptoms of the disease examined by veterinarians specializing in bird health. Droppings left on bird feeders can also be a potential source of exposure, so caution should be exercised when cleaning and replenishing bird feeders in affected areas.
It is important to note that the bacteria causing parrot fever has not been found to spread through cooking or consumption of poultry. The risk of human-to-human transmission is low, and the disease typically leads to small, localized outbreaks associated with exposure to pet or wild birds. Bisanzio suggests that countries affected by the outbreak, as well as neighboring countries, should enhance surveillance of both wild birds and pet birds that may come into contact with them.
Symptoms of parrot fever include fever, headache, diarrhea, cough, muscle pain, and fatigue. If left untreated, the disease can progress to pneumonia. Diagnosis can be made by collecting phlegm, blood, or nose and throat cultures. Antibiotics are prescribed to treat the infection and alleviate symptoms. Most people recover fully with treatment, but in rare cases, complications such as pneumonia, inflammation of the heart valves, hepatitis, and neurologic problems can occur.
Individuals who have been in contact with wild or pet birds and are experiencing symptoms of parrot fever should seek medical evaluation and treatment. While the current outbreak is concerning, it is crucial to remember that the overall risk remains low. By taking necessary precautions and seeking timely medical attention, the spread of parrot fever can be minimized.
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