2024-03-18 08:25:14
Do pigeons carry disease? Image: keystone
Pigeons have a bad reputation. In many places they are considered disease vectors. But is it true? Are pigeon droppings dangerous for people and other animals? Explanations.
Jennifer Buchholz / t-online
An article from
According to information from the professional association for occupational safety and health (BGI), many microorganisms are found in pigeon droppings. In addition to bacteria, these can include fungi and yeasts. Often the parrot disease pathogen (Chlamydophila psittaci) can also be detected in pigeon droppings. Bird droppings are therefore dangerous for humans and other animals.
Noticed: Pathogens are not only found in droppings. They can also adhere to the plumage. If pigeons fly away, bacteria and fungi spread through the air.
Are pigeon droppings dangerous?
Pigeon droppings are dangerous when they contain a pathogen. In addition, it must be absorbed directly by humans, which is normally done either through the respiratory tract or through the mucous membranes.
If you have been infected with bacteria or fungus from feces, you should avoid other people. Indeed, most of the time, pathogens are transmissible from one person to another, sometimes even from a person to an animal.
In addition to pathogens, pigeon droppings can be invaded by mold. Inhaled or absorbed through the mucous membranes, they can also cause diseases in humans and animals. If you just walk past or see pigeon droppings, there is no health risk.
Moreover, pigeon droppings are also dangerous for materials. Especially the mold that grows there. This corrodes almost all surfaces, even metal.
Is fresh bird droppings more infectious?
Fresh pigeon droppings are more infectious than dried droppings. This is mainly due to the fact that UV rays have a bactericidal effect. Additionally, most pathogens can only survive in a humid environment. This means that if it is raining and the sun is not shining, the pathogens in the pigeon droppings are probably still very active and therefore contagious.
Symptoms of pigeon droppings infection
If you are infected with a pathogen found in bird droppings, the following symptoms may appear:
- Nausea
- Spasmodic abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Respiratory tract disease (cough, difficulty breathing)
It is best to consult a doctor. This will be able to examine precisely where your infection comes from and what are the best measures to take.
In conclusion
Pigeon droppings don’t just attack materials. They can also represent a health hazard. Indeed, many bacteria, yeasts and fungi are found there and can in particular cause intestinal and respiratory diseases. In certain circumstances, pigeon droppings are therefore dangerous for people and animals.
Translated and adapted by Chiara Lecca
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