Sweden reports increase in 'parrot fever' since the end of November
Sweden reports increase in 'parrot fever' since the end of November
Folkhälsomyndigheten reports an increase in the number of parrot disease (psittacosis) cases in Sweden since the end of November.
Of the 25 cases reported since September, seven were reported in November and 15 through December 12.
The cases have been reported in eight regions of the country with most cases reported from Västra Götaland (6 cases) and Kalmar (5 cases).
The majority of those who have fallen ill have come into contact with bird droppings from wild birds, for example through handling bird tables and other outdoor activities.
Psittacosis is a disease caused by bacteria called Chlamydophila psittaci. It is usually transmitted by inhaling the agent from dried droppings or secretions of infected birds.
Subscribe to Outbreak News TV on YouTube
Patients with psittacosis usually present fever, headache, rash, muscle pain, chills and dry cough. Pneumonia may sometimes occur, and occasional complications include encephalitis, myocarditis and thrombophlebitis.
The disease can be treated effectively with antibiotics. The disease is not normally transmitted from person to person.
To reduce the risk of being infected by parrot disease, and also by other infectious agents found in birds (e.g. salmonella), close contact with bird droppings, bird nests and sick birds should be avoided. If, for example, a bird table needs to be cleaned, this should be cleaned outdoors and soaked with, for example, soapy water to avoid dried bird droppings from dusting. Using a pressure washer to flush away bird droppings should be avoided as it can increase the amount of airborne contaminants. In the event of contact with bird droppings, it is important to wash your hands thoroughly afterwards.