Histoplasmosis – A respiratory disease. It is the result of a fungus that grows in dried bird droppings, which can be made airborne through unsafe cleaning procedures. It is not typically serious, but in some cases can be fatal.
Candidiasis – A yeast or fungal infection that can be spread by pigeons. This disease affects the skin, mouth, respiratory system, intestines, and the urogenital tract.
Cryptococcosis – A pulmonary disease caused by a fungus found in bird droppings, specifically that of pigeons, starlings, and poultry. It also can grow in soil. It can be dangerous if made airborne, particularly for the immune-compromised people.
Psittacosis – An infection caused by a type of bacteria typically found in bird droppings. It is also referred to as parrot fever, as it is most frequently found in and contracted from parrots. However, it can also be found in droppings from pigeons, gulls, sparrows, ducks, and poultry.
Salmonellosis – A disease that has been found in starlings, pigeons, and sparrows. Also known as food poisoning, this disease is caused when droppings from an infected bird become airborne and contaminate cooking surfaces or food.
Q Fever – A disease contracted by breathing in the dust of feces contaminated with bacteria. It is typically caused by livestock and results in fever, headaches and muscle pain.
