Diseases Associated with Birds

Chlamydiosis

There are two, like diseases which are both influenza type viruses.

The one most commonly found is transmitted by birds such as pigeons and is known as Ornithosis. Although more like a flu-type disease, it should be noted that fatalities can occur just as with other influenza viruses.

Psittacosis

This is the rarer more serious strain being closer to a typical pneumonia. This is also associated with birds from the parrot family.

Cryptococosis

This is a very serious illness. It begins as a lung infection but can progress to the meninges of the brain causing Meningitis.

Campylobacter

This is brought about by the contamination of food sources usually by corvids such as magpies which have been infected by carrion. This can result in extreme forms of gastroenteritis.

Salmonellosis

This is present in upwards of 90% of feral pigeons and slightly lesser percentages in the starling. Common in most birds and species which have been handled or where close proximity to their immediate environment has been encountered and should result in maximum hygiene practices.

Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis

This is more commonly known as "pigeon fancier's lung". It is a serious allergic state which can only be remedied by the removal of birds and associated matter.

Erysipelas

This is a serious wound infection, which may be brought about by the transmission of streptococcus pyrogenes that may enter minor wounds from the debris of birds’ environment.

Escherichia Coli (E-Coli)

This is contracted orally by ingesting food or water contaminated with a pathogenic strain shed by an infected person or animal. Recent research at Lancaster University has linked its spread to gulls.