Psittacosis, also called ornithosis or zoonotic chlamydiosis, is a bacteria that is passed from birds to people. It is most often associated with Psittacine birds, such as parrots, parakeets or macaws. It can also infect turkeys and be passed from turkeys to humans, including during necropsy or slaughter of infected birds.

Psittacosis can be asymptomatic or can produce a mild respiratory illness, including fever, chills and cough. Pneumonia or other more serious symptoms are rare. It is spread by inhaling the bacterial agent which is shed in the feces of birds. Symptomatic birds have diarrhea and the bacteria can be aerosolized as the feces dry.

Prevention

• Avoid having pet birds in households with immunocompromised individuals.
• Use care when performing necropsies on turkeys.
• May be treated with antibiotics if necessary.

For more information, go to www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dbmd/diseaseinfo/psittacosis_t.htm