Humans usually develop psittacosis after being exposed to bird droppings or secretions that have dried, according to a report published in the journal Pathogens in 2023, which was authored by Dembek and other researchers. The dried secretions can produce bacteria-laden dust that humans can inhale if they’re exposed to it.
“Humans most commonly become exposed through the cleaning of dried bird feces in bird cages [or] exposure to airborne bird feces in bird parks,” McHugh adds. “Care should be taken when cleaning bird cages, or when in close proximity to bird droppings.”
Some people are more likely than others to contract psittacosis, due purely to frequency of exposure. “These include poultry farm workers, veterinarians, bird owners and those who work in pet stories,” Dembek says. For people who do not come into contact with live birds regularly, the risk of psittacosis is minimal.
There’s no reason to believe the disease can be spread through preparing or eating cooked poultry, according to the CDC.
People who live in or have booked travel to one of the European countries that have reported higher case counts don’t need to change their plans, says Thaina Landim De Barros, animal welfare scientist at Four Paws International. “It’s not something people should start to get anxious about,” she said. “It’s not a disease that’s causing a pandemic.”
But resources should be given to research efforts investigating the spread of psittacosis, she adds “I would highlight the importance of focusing on prevention [and] addressing the root causes of zoonotic diseases and the interlink between the human-animal-environment interface.”
Whether on vacation or at home, people should take certain precautions when interacting with wildlife to avoid psittacosis and other illnesses, adds Gretel Tovar-Lopez assistant professor of exotic pet, wildlife and zoological medicine at Kansas State University. You should try to avoid areas in which wild birds congregate, and wash your hands frequently if you must come into contact with birds.
Rachel Carter is a health and wellness expert dedicated to helping readers lead healthier lives. With a background in nutrition, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being.
