The threat of Corona has continued across the world for more than four years. This infectious disease has harmed health in many ways. Due to vaccination and herd immunity, the risk of serious diseases caused by corona has now reduced to a great extent, but health experts advise all people to continue taking precautions regarding this infectious disease.
There was no relief from the risks of Corona yet, there is news of an increase in other infectious diseases in European countries these days, a bird is also considered the cause of this disease, although this time it is not due to bats.
According to recent reports, outbreak of parrot fever is being seen in many countries of Europe, not only this, it has also become the cause of death of five people so far. Four people have died in Denmark and one in the Netherlands due to this disease. Dozens of people have been hospitalized in Austria, Germany, and Sweden, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). All people have also been advised to remain cautious regarding the risks of this infectious disease.
Let us know what this parrot fever is and what kind of risks it can pose.
Know about parrot fever
Parrot fever, also known as psittacosis, is a rare but potentially serious bacterial infection caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia psittaci. This infection mainly affects birds, especially parrots, pigeons and chickens. Due to coming in contact with infected birds, there is a risk of infection in humans.
According to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there have been about 10 cases of parrot fever every year in the United States since 2010. However, many cases are not diagnosed or reported because the symptoms are similar to other diseases.
What are the symptoms of this disease?
As the name suggests, this disease is caused by birds. However, parrots are not the only source of this infection. Other wild and domesticated birds can also spread the infection.
Infected birds do not necessarily show symptoms. They can live with the bacteria for months without showing any symptoms. People infected with it may have pneumonia-like symptoms including cough, difficulty breathing, and chest pain. Some people may also experience fever, muscle pain, headache, and gastronomic symptoms.
The risk of serious symptoms also
Health experts said, apart from normal flu-like symptoms, parrot fever can also cause serious symptoms in some people. If this disease is not diagnosed on time, then in severe cases there is a risk of chest pain, difficulty in breathing, and sensitivity to light. In rare cases, the disease can cause inflammation of internal organs, including parts of the brain, liver, and heart.
This can also lead to reduced lung function and pneumonia.
How is parrot fever treated?
Health experts say that when parrot fever patients are diagnosed, some types of antibiotics are used. Antibiotic treatment usually continues for 10 to 14 days after the fever resolves. However, people who suffer from serious diseases need related treatment. Most people treated for parrot fever recover completely. However, recovery may be slower in older people and those with other health problems. In rare situations, there is also a risk of death.
If you have pet birds, be sure to clean cages every day and take measures to keep the birds from getting sick. It is very important to protect against bird waste.
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