Psittacosis: The Silent Epidemic Impacting Children and Adolescents – Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention

2024-03-06 16:24:00

The disease, also called “parrot fever”, is growing in Germany, Austria, Denmark, Sweden and the Netherlands, according to WHO data, which does not mention Belgium. Five deaths were recorded: four in Denmark and one in the Netherlands.

The WHO considers the risk to be low, although it is monitoring the situation closely.

The alarming figures of a silent epidemic which affects more and more children and adolescents

Psittacosis is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Chlamydia psittaci. Pathogens are mainly found in parrots, pigeons, seagulls and other birds.

The bacteria can be transmitted during direct contact with contaminated animals or by inhaling substances present in excrement, particularly when cleaning a bird cage. According to the WHO, people working in pet stores, veterinary practices and poultry factories are most at risk.

The disease can also be transmitted between humans. The US health agency CDC, however, estimates that this only happens in rare cases.

Symptoms are flu-like but can also develop into severe pneumonia.

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