Psittacosis

View CDC's Psittacosis Technical Information Page

Cases = 1

Indiana has had three confirmed case reports of psittacosis during the past five years (1997-2001): one in 2001, one in 2000, and one in 1999.  Those with reported cases ranged in age from 48-59.  Two of the reported cases were in females.  Since 1996, there have been approximately 50 cases reported each year in the United States.  Because of its similarity to other diseases, many cases of psittacosis may not be correctly diagnosed or reported.  Psittacosis is acquired by inhaling dried secretions from infected birds. Individuals at greatest risk are owners of pet birds or occupational exposure to poultry (turkeys and ducks). Psittacosis remains reportable because of the occurrence of periodic outbreaks and the need for public health intervention.

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