what diseases do pigeons carry

what diseases do pigeons carry

1 year ago 64
Nature

Pigeons can carry and transmit a number of diseases to humans through their droppings, feathers, and parasites. Here are some of the most common diseases carried by pigeons:

  • Psittacosis: This is an infection caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, which can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of dried dust particles from infected bird droppings. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, and a dry cough.

  • Histoplasmosis: This is a fungal disease caused by Histoplasma capsulatum, which can grow in pigeon droppings and soil. The fungus can be inhaled when cleaning bird droppings, and symptoms include fever, muscle pain, dry cough, fatigue, and headaches.

  • Cryptococcosis: This is another fungal disease associated with pigeon droppings and soil. It is very unlikely that healthy people will become infected even at high levels of exposure, but those with compromised immune systems are at greater risk.

  • Salmonellosis: This is an infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella, which can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected bird droppings or contaminated food or water. Symptoms include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal cramps.

In addition to these diseases, pigeons can also carry mites, fleas, and West Nile virus, which can cause discomfort and potentially serious health problems. It is important to take precautions to reduce contact with pigeon droppings and feathers, and to practice effective bird control methods to prevent the spread of disease.

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