The 5 Most Dangerous Diseases Carried By Birds

Birds are usually something to be admired for their colour and grace. However, you need to be quite careful around them from a health point of view. Believe it or not, there are several dangerous diseases carried by birds that can affect human wellbeing.

Like many animals who live in the wild, birds can carry diseases. In fact, they are reported to be able to spread more than 60 infectious diseases. Theseinclude some of the most deadly pathogens known to man (The most famous example being avian flu.)

These diseases are mostly transmitted by bird droppings. This is why you never want to allow a build-up of bird faeces around your home or business.They can also spread through theirfeathers, nests and dead birds. Also note that birds feathers – especially those of dead birds – can be host to large numbers of parasites.

Be mindful of this if you run a food related business.Birds like pigeons and gulls are notorious for descending on cafes and food stalls to peck at the leftovers. And where there are birds, there are droppings. According to London pigeon management specialists Diamond Pest Control, a few pest birds can easily turn into an infestation. And if they manage to nest in your property, theycan spread disease and result in contamination of food stocks.

Although there are many diseases carried by birds, it’s mostly gulls, pigeons and starlings who are responsible.

Here are the top five diseases carried by birds.

Salmonellosis.

Salmonellosisis one of the most common diseases carried by birds. It is a bacteria which causes food poisoning. This usually occurs when food or drink is contaminated by infected bird droppings. Dust from bird faeces can also be moved through ventilators and air conditioners, eventually landing up in food.

Histoplasmosis.

This is a type of fungus which lives on birds. It can be transmitted through breathing in air which contains spores. This fungus can cause illness and respiratory problems which are often fatal.

E Coli.

This is another bacteria which can cause food poisoning. It occurs when birds peck at cow manure. The manure contains this bacteria which then passes to their droppings.

Cryptococcosis.

This is a fungi which lives in the intestines of birds. It is transmitted by bird droppings and can spread through the air as well. This fungus can damage your lungs and also the central nervous system.

Avian Flu.

Also known as bird flu. While this disease rarely infects humans it can be transmitted between people. This usually happens if you have contact with infected birds. Also through consuming contaminated poultry.

In addition to these diseases, birds are also host to many other pests such as ticks, mites and fleas.

You can prevent these diseases carried by birds through blocking access to places where they nestor by calling in a bird control professional. Also by keeping outside areas clean. There are plenty of deterrents for pest birds too, ranging from spikes and netting, to sticky gels and ultrasonic devices, to sprinkler systems and using birds of prey.The health of your family and customers of your business is at stake if you don’t take this issue seriously.