WHO warns of psittacosis outbreak in Europe, five dead

The World Health Organization (WHO) on Tuesday issued a new alert for European countries about a new outbreak of psittacosis, also known as psittacosis. parrot fluSo far, five people have died, four from Denmark and one from the Netherlands. It is characterized by an infectious respiratory disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci.

According to the United Nations specialized agency, in February 2024, Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden and the Netherlands reported an increase in COVID-19 cases through the EU Early Warning and Response System (EWS). Psittacosis

Observed in late 2023 and early 2024. Exposure to wild and/or domestic birds has been reported in most cases.

As the World Health Organization reports in a note, human infection occurs primarily through “contact with the secretions of infected birds” and is primarily associated with those who come into contact with pet birds, poultry workers, veterinarians, owners and gardeners . Chlamydia psittaci is an epizootic in native bird populations.

Although an alert has been issued to all European countries, including Spain, the affected areas have implemented Epidemiological Investigation to identify possible exposures and clusters of cases. In addition, measures include the analysis of samples from wild birds sent for avian influenza testing to verify the prevalence of the bacteria in wild birds.

Psittacosis Psittacosis is related to more than 450 species of birds and is also found in several mammals, Includes dogs, cats, horses, large and small ruminants, pigs and reptiles. However, birds, especially pet birds (parrots, finches, canaries, and pigeons), are the most common cause of psittacosis in humans.

Parrot Flu Symptoms

There is no need to be alarmed about this disease because death of an infected person is uncommon. However, certain issues must be considered, including the spread of disease.In humans, it is mainly caused by Inhaled airborne particles From respiratory secretions, dried feces or feather dust. Direct contact with birds is not necessary for infection to occur.

Generally speaking, according to the World Health Organization, psittacosis is “a mild disease,” Symptoms include fever and chills

, headache, muscle aches and dry cough. Most people begin to experience signs and symptoms 5 to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria.

he antibiotic treatment Prompt treatment is effective and can avoid complications such as pneumonia. With appropriate antibiotic treatment, psittacosis rarely causes death (less than 1 in 100 cases).