How can humans most commonly acquire Chlamydia psittaci?

How can humans most commonly acquire Chlamydia psittaci?

• A. Aerosol inhalation of dried fecal dust or respiratory secretions
• B. Direct contact (beak to mouth)
• C. Exposure to plumage
• D. Handling of tissues

Answer: (A)

Transmission to humans is most effectively accomplished through inhalation of aerosols containing the organism from dried bird droppings and respiratory secretions. Birds shed Chlamydia psittaci in feces and secretions, and when these materials dry, dust can become airborne. Inhaling this contaminated dust allows the bacteria to reach the respiratory tract where infection begins. This route is more efficient than others because the bacteria travel in inhaled droplets directly to the lungs, whereas contact with plumage, direct beak-to-mouth contact, or handling tissues aren’t as reliable or frequent a means of delivering the organism to the mucous membranes. In real-world terms, people who handle birds or clean cages are at higher risk due to exposure to airborne dust from dried droppings and secretions.

Transmission to humans is most effectively accomplished through inhalation of aerosols containing the organism from dried bird droppings and respiratory secretions. Birds shed Chlamydia psittaci in feces and secretions, and when these materials dry, dust can become airborne. Inhaling this contaminated dust allows the bacteria to reach the respiratory tract where infection begins. This route is more efficient than others because the bacteria travel in inhaled droplets directly to the lungs, whereas contact with plumage, direct beak-to-mouth contact, or handling tissues aren’t as reliable or frequent a means of delivering the organism to the mucous membranes. In real-world terms, people who handle birds or clean cages are at higher risk due to exposure to airborne dust from dried droppings and secretions.