Psittacosis
Alternate Names : Ornithosis, Chlamydia Psittaci, Parrot Fever
Psittacosis is a lung infection caused by bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci. These bacteria are found mainly in birds, such as parrots, parakeets, pigeons, chickens, ducks, and lovebirds.
What is going on in the body?
Chlamydia psittaci bacteria can infect a number of mammal species. Birds are
the major reservoir for the organism and are an important source for human
disease. Humans usually get the disease by inhaling the bacteria from dried
bird droppings or infected secretions. Symptoms begin 1 to 2 weeks after
infection.
What are the causes and risks of the infection?
Psittacosis is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci. Someone who lives or works around birds is at risk for getting the disease.
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