Diseases Associated with Birds
The most commonly found is transmitted by birds such as pigeons and is know as Ornithosis. Although more like a flu-type disease, it should be noted that fatalities can occur just as with other influenza viruses.
Cryptococcosis This is a very serious illness. It begins as a lung infection but can progress to the meninges of the brain causing Meningitis.
Campylobacter This is brought about by the contamination of food sources usually by corvids such as magpies which have been infected by carrion. This can result in extreme forms of gastroenteritis.
Salmonellosis This is present in upwards of 90% of feral pigeons and slightly lesser percentage in starlings.
Extrinsic Allergic Alveolitis This is more commonly know as ‘Pigeons fancier’s lung’ It is a serious allergic state which can be remedied by the removal of bird associated matter.
Erysipelas This is a serious wound infection, which can be brought about by the transmission of streptococcus pyogenes that may enter minor wounds from debris of birds environment.
