AUSTRIA: 5 European countries reporting rise in psittacosis respiratory infections
Five European countries have reported an unexpected rise in infections involving psittacosis respiratory disease, including 5 deaths. Psittacosis is a bacteria known to affect birds. Countries reporting cases are Austria, Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and the Netherlands. The patients were reported to have contact with domestic or wild birds. Read more
Advice for travellers
Psittacosis is an infectious disease usually spread to humans from infected birds in the parrot family. Birds in the parrot family, or psittacines, include parrots, macaws, budgerigars (parakeets or budgies), and cockatiels. Domestic turkeys and pigeons have also infected people. Bacteria called Chlamydia psittaci cause the disease. Read more
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.