Many
professionals exaggerate the number of diseases
that can be transmitted from birds to humans.
However, the diseases that pigeons carry are not
directly transmitted to man. Pigeon dropping are
very rich in nutrients and this is where most
parasites flourish before attacking humans. Some
of these parasites can bite humans or just be a
nuisance to human beings. However, there are
still some diseases that can be transferred from
a sick pigeon to your poultry.
Histoplasmosis
This is a very dangerous disease that is caused
by fungal spores. The fungus itself thrives in
soil that is enriched with pigeon droppings. The
soil has to be in contact with the pigeon
droppings for a minimum of two years for the
fungus to produce this dangerous vermin. The
spores are airborne and the only way that they
get into your body is if you inhale them. The
disease causes blood abnormalities, high fever,
pneumonia and even death in very severe cases.
Cryptococcosis
The most common source of the fungus that causes
this disease also appears to be pigeon
droppings. The fungus may thrive in a place with
accumulated pigeon droppings regardless of
whether it is your attic or your pigeon house.
More than 83% of old pigeon nests have been
found to be infected with this fungus. The bad
news is that the fungus thrives in the pigeon
droppings regardless of whether they are dry or
wet. In fact, persons may not show any signs.
The good news is that infections are mild and
only occur if the victim has a weak immune
system. It first affects the lungs and then
spreads quickly to the rest of the body. Skin
eruptions, acne and ulcers are some of the most
exhibited symptoms. Although it is an uncommon
disease, severe infections can be fatal if they
remain untreated.
Candidiasis
This is perhaps the most common disease carried
by pigeons. It is caused by fungus and yeast. It
affects the mouth, skin, the vagina and the
respiratory track. It is a growing problem in
many parts of the world and women suffer the
most.
Salmonellosis
This disease is mostly associated with food
poisoning. The disease is caused by bacteria
that live in pigeon droppings. The bacteria are
airborne and contaminate food upon contact. It
is not a dangerous disease but it can cause
restlessness in human beings.
Parasites
Apart from the diseases above, pigeons are also
very notorious for transmitting parasites like
fleas, chicken mites, and also worms like
tapeworms. These parasites can be transmitted
both to humans and to your poultry. While they
may not be fatal, they may cause a decrease in
egg production in your chicken and also cause
health complications to you and those around
you.
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