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Psittacosis

New 2017 Compendium!

The National Association of State Public Health Veterinarians released an updated Compendium of Measures to Control Chlamydia psittaci Infection Among Humans (Psittacosis) and Pet Birds (Avian Chlamydiosis). View the Compendium and related resources.

Clinical Features
In humans, fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a dry cough. Pneumonia is often evident on chest x-ray.
Etiologic Agent
Chlamydia psittaci, a gram-negative bacterium; the bacterium was previously known as Chlamydophila psittaci.
Incidence
Since 2010, fewer than 10 confirmed cases are reported in the United States each year. More cases may occur that are not correctly diagnosed or reported.
Sequelae
Endocarditis, hepatitis, and neurologic complications may occasionally occur. Severe pneumonia requiring intensive-care support may also occur. Fatal cases have been reported but are rare.
Transmission Bird on a perch
Birds are the natural reservoirs of C. psittaci and infection is usually acquired by inhaling dried secretions from infected birds. The incubation period is 5 to 19 days. Although all birds are susceptible, pet birds (parrots, parakeets, macaws, and cockatiels) and poultry (turkeys and ducks) are most frequently involved in transmission to humans. Personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and appropriate masks, should be used when handling birds or cleaning their cages.
Risk Groups
Bird owners, aviary and pet shop employees, poultry workers, and veterinarians. Outbreaks of psittacosis in poultry processing plants have been reported.
Treatment
Tetracyclines are the treatment of choice.
Surveillance
Psittacosis is a reportable condition in most states.
Trends
Annual incidence varies considerably because of periodic outbreaks. A decline in reported cases since 1988 may be the result of improved diagnostic tests that distinguish C. psittaci from more common C. pneumoniae infections.
Challenges
Diagnosis of psittacosis can be difficult. Serologic tests are often used to confirm a diagnosis, but antibiotic treatment may prevent an antibody response, thus limiting diagnosis by serologic methods. Infected birds are often asymptomatic. Tracebacks of infected birds to distributors and breeders often is not possible because of limited regulation of the pet bird industry.
Opportunities
Characterize new and rapid diagnostic tests for human and avian psittacosis, and determine value of screening flocks for avian psittacosis to prevent human infection.

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