Chlamydia psittaci
Quick Summary
Chlamydia psittaci is a bacterial parasite that causes psittacosis, an infectious disease found worldwide and transmitted to humans from birds. This infection can occur in about 70 different bird species, with common sources of human infection including pet birds like parrots and parakeets, as well as ducks, geese, and turkeys.1
Humans typically contract psittacosis by inhaling dust contaminated with infected bird droppings. The bacteria then multiply in the blood and tissues, potentially causing high fever and pneumonia in humans. Other symptoms may include chills, weakness, aches, and an increased respiratory rate. While historically the disease had a significant fatality rate, modern antibiotics like penicillin and tetracycline have drastically reduced mortality.1
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Chlamydia…is composed of three species: C. psittaci, which causes psittacosis; Chlamydia trachomatis, various strains of which cause chlamydia, trachoma, lymphogranuloma venereum, and conjunctivitis; and C. pneumoniae, which causes respiratory-tract infections.
Read More…is composed of three species: C. psittaci, which causes psittacosis; Chlamydia trachomatis, various strains of which cause chlamydia, trachoma, lymphogranuloma venereum, and conjunctivitis; and C. pneumoniae, which causes respiratory-tract infections.
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infectious diseaseChlamydial organismsAnother chlamydial organism, Chlamydophila psittaci, produces psittacosis, a disease that results from exposure to the discharges of infected birds. The illness is characterized by high fever with chills, a slow heart rate, pneumonia, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle pains, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. The diagnosis is usually suspected if…
Read MoreAnother chlamydial organism, Chlamydophila psittaci, produces psittacosis, a disease that results from exposure to the discharges of infected birds. The illness is characterized by high fever with chills, a slow heart rate, pneumonia, headache, weakness, fatigue, muscle pains, anorexia, nausea, and vomiting. The diagnosis is usually suspected if…
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