Psittacosis, also known as parrot fever, is most frequently found in the parrot family, including birds like budgerigars and cockatiels. However, other birds like pigeons and poultry can also carry the infection, and occasionally, infected birds can transmit the bacteria to horses.

Infected birds may show no signs of illness or exhibit mild to severe symptoms, shedding bacteria in their droppings, respiratory and eye secretions. The bacteria can persist in dried droppings for months.

Workers at risk of psittacosis include those in various roles such as pet store workers, poultry industry employees, wildlife carers, bird breeders, veterinarians, and others who work with birds. Psittacosis poses a higher risk for individuals with specific personal factors like age, pregnancy, or compromised immunity due to medical conditions or treatments.

To manage exposure, elimination is the most effective approach, but when not feasible, minimizing the risk becomes crucial. Key recommendations for managing exposure include:

Preventing Infection:

• Source birds from reliable suppliers.
• Keep pet and farmed birds separated from wild birds.
• Quarantine new birds or test/treat for avian chlamydiosis.

Workplace Design:

• Use ventilation to control aerosols and dust.
• Design bird housing for easy cleaning and disinfection.
• Use solid-sided cages to prevent droplet transfer.

Maintaining Cleanliness:

• Regularly clean to prevent droppings from accumulating.
• Clean bird equipment in designated areas.
• Control pests like rodents and insects.

Personal Hygiene:

• Wash hands thoroughly before and after bird contact.
• Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking around birds.
• Cover cuts and breaks in the skin.
• Wear clean work clothes and footwear.
• Avoid kissing birds.

Managing Sick Birds:

• Isolate sick birds until examined by a veterinarian.
• Minimize handling of sick and infected birds.
• Use dedicated equipment for sick birds.
• Wet carcasses with water and detergent for handling.

Information and Training:

• Provide workers with information on health risks.
• Educate on recognizing and managing sick birds.
• Instruct on safe work procedures and handwashing practices.
• Ensure pet stores inform customers about psittacosis.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):

• Workers handling bird housing or dried droppings should wear gloves and a proper respirator.
• When handling sick or infected birds, additional PPE such as protective clothing and eyewear may be necessary.

Workers should be provided with adequate washing facilities, first aid facilities, and training on recognizing and reporting sick birds. Psittacosis risk management involves a continuous process of assessing and controlling risks, reviewing controls regularly, and ensuring effective communication and education for workers.