Parrot Fever Outbreak in Europe Linked to Five Deaths

The World Health Organization reports an unusual increase in parrot fever cases across five European countries, resulting in five fatalities.

Five European countries report an 'unusual and unexpected' increase in parrot fever cases, with five deaths recorded.
The disease, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, predominantly affects birds but can infect humans through airborne particles.
Most human cases have been linked to contact with infected wild or pet birds, though human-to-human transmission is very rare.
Symptoms of parrot fever in humans resemble those of the flu, and early antibiotic treatment can significantly reduce mortality rates.
The WHO advises pet-bird owners to maintain clean environments and practice good hygiene to prevent the spread of the disease.