Core Insights - Pet birds, such as parrots, pigeons, and canaries, are popular companions but can carry various pathogens that pose health risks, especially to vulnerable populations like children, pregnant women, and the elderly [1][21] Summary by Categories Common Pet Bird-Related Infectious Diseases - **Bacterial Infections**: - Salmonellosis can be transmitted through contaminated food, water, or environments, leading to symptoms like diarrhea and abdominal pain [2] - Avian tuberculosis can spread through feces or respiratory droplets, causing prolonged low fever and weight loss [2] - **Viral Infections**: - Avian influenza (e.g., H5N1, H7N9) can be contracted through contact with infected birds or undercooked poultry, resulting in high fever and respiratory distress [3] - **Fungal Infections**: - Aspergillosis can be spread through bird droppings or moldy feed, leading to respiratory infections [5] - **Chlamydial Infections**: - Psittacosis can be transmitted via feces, feathers, or respiratory secretions, causing high fever and severe respiratory issues [6] - **Parasitic Infections**: - Mites and feather lice can be spread through direct contact, causing skin irritation [7] - Cryptosporidiosis and Toxoplasmosis can be contracted through contaminated water or food, with severe implications for immunocompromised individuals [8] Infection Transmission Routes - **Direct Contact**: Handling birds without gloves or being pecked can introduce pathogens [9] - **Airborne Transmission**: Inhaling dust or aerosols from bird droppings can lead to infections [9] - **Fecal-Oral Transmission**: Contaminated hands can transfer pathogens to the mouth [9] - **Environmental Indirect Transmission**: Unclean bird cages and feeding equipment can harbor pathogens [9] - **Vertical Transmission**: Infections can affect fetuses if pregnant women are infected [9] Prevention Strategies - **Scientific Management**: - Regular cleaning and disinfection of cages and feeding equipment are essential [11] - Proper disposal of molted feathers and maintaining a dry environment can reduce fungal growth [11] - Monitoring bird health and ensuring vaccinations for preventable diseases are crucial [12][13] - **Personal Protection**: - Wearing gloves and masks during bird care can minimize exposure [14] - Hand hygiene is vital after handling birds [15] - High-risk individuals should avoid direct contact with birds [16] - **Diet and Environmental Safety**: - Cooking poultry products thoroughly and preventing bird access to food preparation areas can reduce risks [17][18] - **Timely Response to Abnormal Situations**: - Immediate veterinary consultation for sick birds and informing healthcare providers of bird exposure in case of human symptoms are necessary [19][20] Conclusion - While pet birds can enhance life quality, their potential infectious disease risks require careful management and preventive measures to ensure safe companionship [21][22]