Diseases from Birds

It has been suggested that there are over 60 other diseases that birds and their droppings can carry. The problem is especially worrisome in residential areas, as many of them are airborne and can be transferred to humans just by being around droppings.

What are the Diseases that humans can catch from birds?

E. COLI:

When it comes to diseases spread by birds, chances are that you’ve already heard of the bacteria E. coli which is carried by cattle. Birds are disgusting creatures when you think about it; you’ll find them pecking away at cow poop to find worms and other yummy insects for dinner. But in the process, they can also pick up E. coli bacteria from the faeces, which then goes straight through them coming out in their own waste, which could  dropped onto your car, window at your home, or even be diffused into the air through your air conditioning system.

CANDIDIASIS:

This is a fungal or yeast infection spread by pigeons, and is particularly a problem in women, who experience cystitis-like symptoms including vaginal pain and irritation. Candidiasis can also affect the skin, mouth, intestines, and respiratory system.

SALMONELLOSIS:

If you’ve ever eaten some dodgy meat and ended up spending at least the next 24 hours vomiting. Then you’ll know what salmonellosis (food poisoning) feels like. Along with bad food, though, birds such as pigeons and sparrows can also be responsible for salmonellosis, since the disease bacteria can found in bird droppings.

ST. LOUIS ENCEPHALITIS:

Symptoms of this disease typically include drowsiness, fever and headache. It is especially dangerous to people over the age of sixty, and in particularly severe cases, can lead to paralysis, coma or fatality. The disease spread to humans via infected mosquitos, which fed on infected pigeons, house sparrow. Or house finches that carry the Group B virus responsible.

CRYPTOCOCCOSIS:

Caused by a type of yeast found in the intestinal tract of starlings or pigeons, cryptococcosis usually manifests itself as a pulmonary disease. But can later expand to affect the central nervous system.

Along with being direct carriers, birds associated with over fifty types of eco-parasites. Which can spread a disease to humans through bites.