A pet bird that originated from an Island County bird distributor, Whidbey Birds, has tested positive for avian chlamydiosis, a bacterial disease that can also cause illness in humans.

Avian chlamydiosis (sometimes referred to as “parrot fever”) can cause serious disease in birds and rarely cause disease in people, which is called psittacosis. Avian chlamydiosis is typically found in cockatiels, parakeets, parrots, macaws, and other parrot-like (psittacine) birds. Symptoms include nasal and eye discharge, green to yellow-green droppings/diarrhea, fever, inactivity, ruffled feathers, weakness and weight loss.

Healthy-looking birds can also be infected and shed the bacteria when stressed, causing infection to other species of birds housed in the same environment, like finches, canaries and doves.

Symptoms of psittacosis commonly include fever and chills, headache, muscle aches and a dry cough. Psittacosis is rare in Washington, with less than a dozen cases reported over the last 20 years. Although the risk of psittacosis is low, persons who have purchased pet birds should take a few steps to protect themselves and their bird.

Use caution for bird owners. People are usually infected by breathing dried droppings or other body fluids excreted from infected birds. To protect yourself when handling sick birds or cleaning cages, bowls and other objects, always wear gloves and use an appropriately fitted mask. Use household bleach (1:32 dilution or 1/2 cup of bleach per gallon of water) or another registered disinfectant when cleaning.

Use caution for birds. Birds do not always become sick. If you purchased a bird from Whidbey Birds and if your bird appears sick with noted symptoms, please speak to your veterinarian about getting your bird tested for avian chlamydiosis.

Watch for symptoms. Symptoms of psittacosis in humans include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and a dry cough. More severe symptoms can occasionally occur, such as pneumonia. If you get any of these symptoms and are aware your bird may have been exposed to this disease or is symptomatic, please consult with your health care provider.

Island County Public Health strives to help the community with disease prevention, health promotion, and protection from environmental threats. To read more about this disease please see the Washington State Department of Health website at www.doh.wa.gov/YouandYourFamily/IllnessandDisease/Psittacosis.