Alternative Names
Ornithosis; Chlamydia psittaci
Definition of Psittacosis:
Psittacosis is an infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci, a type of bacteria found in the droppings of birds. Birds spread the infection to humans.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors:
Psittacosis is a rare disease-- fewer than 50 cases have been reported in the United States in the past 5 years.
Bird owners, pet shop employees, workers in poultry processing plants, and veterinarians are at increased risk for this infection.
