Symptoms of Psittacosis: Key Manifestations Explained

What is "Psittacosis," Also Known as Parrot Fever?

Psittacosis is a contagious disease caused by Chlamydia, an organism that is neither a bacterium nor a virus, but rather a pathogen that falls between the two, and it is highly infectious.

This disease primarily spreads among birds, with parrots being the most common hosts. However, other bird species such as ducks and turkeys can also contract psittacosis and remain contagious. For this reason, psittacosis is also referred to as "bird fever" and "avian plague." Under certain conditions, psittacosis can also be transmitted to humans. The disease was first identified in people who kept parrots, which is why it is called "parrot fever." It has caused outbreaks in more than 20 countries in Europe and the United States, and there have been isolated cases reported in Beijing, Anhui, Guangdong, and other regions in China.

What are the Symptoms of Psittacosis?

1. Symptoms in Birds Infected with Psittacosis:

For example, parrots infected with psittacosis typically show signs of depression, decreased appetite, or even complete refusal to eat. They may also experience diarrhea, starting with watery stools that gradually turn green and gray. In the middle stages, the amount of feces decreases and becomes more粘稠, often appearing black or green and frequently sticking to the bird's feathers. In the later stages, the feces become watery again, and the bird may exhibit conjunctivitis and nasal discharge, along with difficulty breathing, increased respiratory sounds, "racketing" calls, and a tendency to remain still. Ultimately, the bird may die due to exhaustion.

2. Symptoms in Humans Infected with Psittacosis:

Humans who contract psittacosis usually have an incubation period of 12 weeks, with the longest being around 45 days.

The symptoms of psittacosis in humans can vary widely. Some individuals may experience a slow onset, with a gradual rise in body temperature over 34 days. However, most people develop symptoms acutely, presenting with high fever, chills, a slow heart rate, and general malaise. They may also suffer from fatigue, severe headaches, and muscle pain throughout the body. In severe cases, patients may experience muscle pain in the limbs and trunk, making it difficult to stand.

For more information on the symptoms and treatment of psittacosis, you can read "How to Treat Psittacosis?"