‘Parrot Fever’ Claims 5 Lives Across Europe; Experts Warn About Psittacosis Outbreak

Since the start of 2024, a fatal outbreak of psittacosis, also known as parrot fever, has claimed the lives of five people in Europe. It was initially noted in 2023 and has continued through the start of this year, claiming the lives of five people.

(Photo: Wikimedia Commons/ USDAgov)

Threat From Bacterial Infection

On March 5, the World Health Organization reported a deadly outbreak that has recently affected several European countries. The health agency outlined cases from Sweden, Germany, Denmark, Austria, and the Netherlands that documented an unusual and unexpected increase in cases of so-called parrot fever between 2023 and the start of 2024.

Austria typically reports two cases of this disease each year. In 2023, it saw 14 confirmed cases, and four more this year. These cases are unrelated; none of the reported individuals traveled abroad or came into contact with wild birds.

In Denmark, 15 to 30 cases are typically reported every year. Most of these cases stem from exposure to domestic birds or hobby birds such as racing pigeons. As of February 27, the country has 23 confirmed cases, although public health officials suspect the actual case count could be much higher.

Of all the reported Danish cases, 17 people were hospitalized, 15 had pneumonia, and four died. At least one person in the country was reported to have acquired parrot fever from a pet bird. Of the 15 other cases with exposure information, 12 were reported to have had contact with wild birds, mostly through bird feeders. In three of the other cases, the patients had no history of contact with any kind of bird.

Meanwhile, Germany saw 14 confirmed cases of the bacterial infection in 2023 and another five this year. Almost all of the affected individuals had pneumonia, and 16 have been hospitalized. Of all the 19 cases, five reported exposure to sick chickens or pet birds.

According to WHO, further investigation is needed to determine whether the increase in cases across countries is due to more people developing the disease or more cases being detected due to improved surveillance and diagnostic techniques.

What is Parrot Fever?

Parrot fever, or psittacosis, is an infection caused by a species of bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci. This microorganism most often infects birds, but it can also infect many mammals, such as dogs, cats, and horses.

Humans can catch this bacteria by inhaling airborne particles that contain Chlamydia psittaci. Human-to-human transmission is rare, with only a handful of cases ever reported. In most cases, they develop psittacosis by inhaling particles that waft from infected birds' breath, feces, or feather dust, especially pets like parrots, canaries, or finches.

Parrot fever is more common in people who come into close contact with birds, such as veterinarians, pet bird owners, and poultry workers. The infection is also possible even without having direct contact with birds. There is also no evidence that the bacteria can be spread by preparing or eating poultry.

Psittacosis usually causes mild illness in humans. Its symptoms are similar to flu, like fever, headache, chills, and dry cough. These symptoms typically appear within five to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria. Antibiotics can cure the disease effectively if used early in infection. They can also help prevent serious complications like pneumonia and heart inflammation.

Meanwhile, the symptoms of psittacosis in birds include poor appetite, eye or nose discharge, and a ruffled appearance. The infection can kill over 50% of infected birds, and the risk of death depends on factors like bird species and animal health.