Argentina: Psittacosis cases prompt recommendations in Entre Ríos
The Ministry of Health for the Gobierno de Entre Ríos province reported 20 cases of of psittacosis, a disease that is transmitted mainly by birds, in the past month, prompting the issuance of preventive measures to the public.
Health authorities have indicated that it is necessary to take extreme preventive measures against this infectious disease, which is caused by a bacteria that is usually transmitted to humans by birds such as parrots, turkeys and pigeons. Therefore, the risk is usually greater for pet shop workers and those people who have bought an infected bird.
Psittacosis is usually spread by inhaling dust from dried fecal matter in bird cages, feather dust, animal secretions, and by handling infected birds.
A characteristic of this disease is that waste material or droppings in a bird's cage can remain infectious for weeks.
In humans, the most common symptoms of the disease are:
- Fever.
- Headache.
- Chills.
- Severe pneumonia (in some cases).
It should also be noted that the incubation period can last between four and 15 days, and a confirmed diagnosis is obtained through laboratory tests for blood antibodies. However, health professionals can make a diagnosis based on clinical data and the ownership of this type of pet in homes and work environments, which will then be confirmed by laboratory testing.
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Health officials offer the following preventive measures for the public:
- If you have birds as pets, it is important to constantly clean their cages to prevent fecal matter from accumulating, drying and becoming airborne. Cleaning should be done wet (with water and bleach) and wearing a mask.
- Avoid the occasional purchase of birds on the street. Do not capture wild birds.
- Keep birds in ventilated areas with sufficient space, without overcrowding them.
-Do not stay for long periods in closed rooms where there are birds.
-Do not introduce recently captured or purchased birds without a health certificate into cages where there are already other birds.
-Do not pick up birds from the ground that cannot fly, either due to injuries or with breathing difficulties, as they may be sick with psittacosis and contagious.