How does parrot fever spread?

The bacterium spreads mainly through:

• dried droppings
• dust particles from feathers
• nasal and eye discharge
• fluid from the respiratory tract

Infection often occurs through inhaling contaminated dust.

Birds can sometimes carry the bacterium for a long time without clearly appearing ill.

Symptoms of parrot fever in birds

The symptoms in birds can vary greatly depending on the bird species and the severity of the infection.

Common symptoms include:

• lethargy
• reduced appetite
• weight loss
• fluffed-up feathers
• nasal discharge
• eye inflammation
• diarrhoea
• breathing problems

Some birds die suddenly without clear prior symptoms.

Is parrot fever dangerous for people?

Yes, parrot fever is a zoonosis. This means that the disease can be transmitted from animals to people.

In people, an infection can cause symptoms such as:

• fever
• headache
• muscle pain
• coughing
• shortness of breath
• pneumonia

Older people, people with weakened immune systems and people who work intensively with birds are at greater risk in particular.

Reporting requirement in Europe

Psittacosis is a notifiable disease in many European countries. This means that cases must be reported to the relevant country’s Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority.

This is because:

• the disease poses risks to public health
• spread between birds must be prevented
• further infections must be traced quickly

Outbreaks in Europe in 2024

Parrot fever received extra attention because there were several reports and outbreaks in different European countries between Christmas 2023 and March 2024. Infections in people and birds were identified in Germany, Denmark, Sweden, Austria and the Netherlands, among others. As a result, good hygiene and vigilance among bird keepers once again received attention.

How can you prevent infection?

Good hygiene is very important when keeping birds.

Important measures include:

• cleaning cages and aviaries regularly
• limiting dust formation
• washing your hands after contact with birds
• keeping sick birds separate
• placing new birds in quarantine first

Do you suspect that a bird is ill? Then contact your vet, or preferably an avian vet.

Can parrot fever be treated?

Yes, parrot fever can be treated with antibiotics. However, a quick diagnosis is important to prevent spread and serious illness. In people too, treatment with antibiotics is usually necessary.