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
bacterium |
Incidence
|
Each year 50-100 confirmed cases
are reported in the United States each year. Many 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. |
Transmission
|
Infection is acquired by inhaling
dried secretions from infected birds. The incubation period is 6 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. |
Risk Groups
|
Bird owners, pet shop employees,
and veterinarians. Outbreaks of psittacosis in poultry processing plants have been
reported. |
Surveillance
|
Psittacosis is a reportable condition
in all 50 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. 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. |
