Feral Pigeons Spread Disease Causing Organisms! Re: ME/CFS/Fibromyalgia/GWS?

[Guest guest]

["Basel in Switzerland identified 60 different microorganisms associated with feral pigeons that were capable of causing human disease. Fungi accounted for the majority of microorganisms with 45 represented, 9 were bacteria, 5 were viruses, and one was a protozoan."]

The rural newspaper office I used to work in was contaminated by pigeon faecal matter. The pigeon droppings had built up in the ceiling, and rafters, over many decades. It was there that I first became ill with the debilitating symptoms of ME/CFS/Fibromyalgia etc.

I worked for the newspaper in 1988 – 1989. Returning again in 1993 – 1994. The office was located in an old corrugated shed - with a facade facing the main street. About ten employees worked there at any given time.

In the ceiling were gaping cracks. Including the ceiling area above my desk. I could see, and hear, the constant movement of pigeons. Pigeon droppings were noticeable through the ceiling cracks. On the wall, behind my desk, was a small, dilapidated air-conditioner.

My husband also recalls, that out the back of the shed it was like an open barn. With exposed rafters where the pigeons roosted. This area led into the hall, and straight into the small office areas.

Obviously, pigeon contaminants were being circulated throughout the entire office. Via the air-conditioning etc. Minute infectious particles – capable of being inhaled - would also have been escaping through the cracks, and vents.

In 1989 I started getting fatigued. At university in 1990 I became extremely unwell. I seemed to recover for awhile. Then I returned to the newspaper office in 1993. In August 1994 I got sick...with flu-like symptoms, and fever. One day I was sitting at my desk. Suddenly, it felt as though there was a tight band, squeezing my chest, and constricting my breathing. This continued indefinately causing me to gasp for air. I was also finding it difficult to remember, and retain, new information. I resigned.

I seemed to get better for awhile but I never fully recovered. Gradually my health deteriorated. Then in about late 1997 new symptoms developed. And my health became progressively worse. Since then I've been suffering with debilitating symptoms brought on by ME/CFS/Fibromyalgia/EBV/IBS.

The young woman, who filled my position at the newspaper, eventually became ill. She told me that she could barely get out of bed for about six months. Another long-term employee was struck down – and died from Cardiomyopathy. She was only 45-years-old. The editor also told me about her chronic sinus problems. Another colleague complained of a specific health problem. I think it was a lung infection.

I'm convinced, until breakthrough-discoveries prove otherwise, that the likely cause of my CFS was workplace contamination. Caused by the risk-factors I've outlined above. You can read about the role pigeons play in transferring diseases to humans...in the articles that follow.

I hope that researchers will start digging deeper into the hidden health-hazards - facing workers, students, and tenants - in contaminated buildings.

[Gulf War Veterans were exposed to sand, and dust particles - containing dried, and contaminated bird faecal matter. In earthquakes there is documentation about contaminated dust particles causing human disease.]

• PIGEONS SPREAD DISEASE

Pigeons can pass on diseases to humans such as Salmonellosis, Aspergillosis, Histoplasmosis and Cryptococcus. These bacterial and fungal diseases are transmitted to humans by pigeon droppings and respiratory droplets. Pigeons also harbour the protozoan disease Toxoplasmosis which damages the central nervous system and eyes, particularly those of infants. Fleas and mites are also spread by pigeons.

http://www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/Business/documents/Health/PigeonFactsheet2005.pdf

Techletter.com

What Science Tells Us

Without a doubt, pigeons carry human pathogens. A study from the University of Basel in Switzerland identified 60 different microorganisms associated with feral pigeons that were capable of causing human disease. Fungi accounted for the majority of microorganisms with 45 represented, 9 were bacteria, 5 were viruses, and one was a protozoan.

http://www.amk-ycktc.org.sg/highlights/edu_pigeons.shtml

Health Risks

CryptococcosisTransmitted through pigeon droppings, this disease is an infection of the lungs and brain. About 10 cases are reported each year and the mortality rate is 40%.

PsittacosisTransmitted through infected pigeons or their droppings. This disease is an infection of the lungs.

GastroenteritisTransmitted through food and water contaminated with pigeon droppings which carry food poisoning bacteria. This disease is an infection of the stomach and intestines and is commonly known as food poisoning.

BNET:

A new book about the health risks that excessive bird droppings on commercial and residential buildings present to tenants has been written by Phil Waldorf of Bell-Environmental Services--a New Jersey based pest elimination company that has patented a method to completely rid a building of birds inexpensively.

The book, Health Hazards From Pigeons, Starlings and English Sparrows, is available on the company's website www.bell-environmental.com.

Mr. Waldorf's book is about how diseases and parasites associated with these pest birds affect millions of Americans everyday--especially those in high-rise commercial and residential buildings.

According to the book, all occupants in buildings with ventilation systems are at risk for serious and sometimes life threatening illnesses. "Many buildings suffer from what is called The Sick Building Syndrome. This is from bird droppings accumulating in or near the HVAC systems and spreading the disease causing organisms commonly found in the bird fecal matter to every occupant," said Phil Waldorf, president of Bell Environmental Services.

"In many instances the Sick Building Syndrome causes occupants to suffer from repeated eye infections, burning eyes, respiratory distress, and headaches."

The first pages in of the book features graphic and current photographs of rooftops (where most ventilation systems are kept) of prominent office and residential buildings literally buried under four to five feet of bird droppings.

More than sixty diseases are associated with bird droppings. Some of the most common are Tuberculosis, Encephalitis, Meningitis, Chlamydiosis and Q Fever.

Bird droppings are considered to be hazardous waste and special bio-suits and filter masks are for those charged with the removal of bird waste.

COPYRIGHT 2003 Hagedorn PublicationCOPYRIGHT 2008 Gale, Cengage Learning

Gulf War Syndrome

Al Eskan disease: Desert Storm pneumonitis.

Korenyi-Both AL, Korenyi-Both AL, Molnar AC, Fidelus-Gort R. Office of the Commander, 316th STA. HOSP., Riyadh Saudi Arabia.

Mil Med. 1992 Sep;157(9):452-62.

The authors observed an acute desert-related disease when the mixture of the fine Saudi sand dust and pigeon droppings triggered a hyperergic lung condition. It was further aggravated by various kinds of organic pathogenic components contributing to an opportunistic infection of the lung. These all lead to the recognition of a new clinicopathological entity, Desert Storm pneumonitis or Al Eskan disease. For the first time, the Saudi sand dust's elemental composition was studied by ultrastructural and microanalytical means. The authors concluded that, contrary to previous beliefs, sand particles less than 1 microns (0.1 microns to 0.25 microns) in diameter are present in substantial quantities in the Saudi sand and are pathogenic, causing hyperergia. Pathogenesis of the sand dust, induced hyperergia, and its immunopathologic background are highlighted.

Gulf War syndrome (GWS), affecting a number of men and women who served in the Persian Gulf War, represents a group of medical and psychological complaints, including fatigue, respiratory illness, muscular pain, spasms, skin rash, memory loss, dizziness, peripheral numbness, and sleep disturbances. A 1996 VA study (Kang et al. 1996) reported that Gulf War veterans were 50% more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident than military personnel not sent to the Gulf War. W. Haley, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, reported similar findings but added in an article published by the Associated Press that the Gulf War veteran also has a higher rate of depression and suicide. Haley correlated these findings medically with individuals who have sustained brain injuries (Haley 1997; 1998; Haley et al. 1997a; 1997b).

Between August 1990 and March 1991, the U.S. deployed more than 697,000 troops in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The majority of the troops were stationed in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or aboard ships in the Red Sea. Of these, more than 100,000 (one in seven) have reported serious health concerns to the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Unfortunately, some family members of those stricken gradually display signs and symptoms of the syndrome as well, suggesting an infectious explanation of the illness.

Speculative Causes of GWS

When causative factors are obscure and not unilaterally accepted, as in GWS, speculation oftentimes overrides a precise explanation. This appears true in GWS. Suppositions are many in regard to the contributory sequence that terminated in the physical and psychological symptoms familiar to veterans diagnosed with GWS.

The postulations being most scrutinized are exposure to toxins in the environment (such as oil fires), chemical and biological weapons, low-level uranium exposure, an immune reaction to a drug administered to protect against attacks of Soman (a nerve gas), dust, and even the immunizations (specifically, the anthrax vaccine and polio booster) given to the troops prior to deployment. Any of these theories could explain a state of unwellness when imposed upon a vulnerable host.

Nutritionally oriented clinicians subscribe to the rationale, "If you can't eat it, don't smell it." This caveat was not possible to heed in the Gulf War environment. More than 500 oil well fires were burning in Kuwait during June 1991, emitting extremely high levels of particulate matter. Detections of sarin, a potentially fatal nerve gas, tabun, a neuroparalytic toxic agent, and sulfur mustard gas were reported during the period of January 19-21, 1991. Troops responsible for cleaning up Iraqi ammunition dumps may have been exposed to depleted uranium, a form of uranium used in munitions because of its density and metallurgical properties. Korenyi-Both et al. (1992) reported that the combination of Saudi dust and pigeon droppings ignited an acute hyperallergic reaction that has come to be known as Desert Storm pneumonitis or Al Eskan disease. There are those who question whether the very preventative measures--drugs and vaccinations--employed to protect the troops from chemical or biological warfare may be the agents provoking the illness. Confounding the inquest, manifestations of the syndrome are unpredictable. Just as cancer can occur long after exposure to the causative factor, the complications arising from GWS can be just as unpredictable.

Gulf War syndrome (GWS), affecting a number of men and women who served in the Persian Gulf War, represents a group of medical and psychological complaints, including fatigue, respiratory illness, muscular pain, spasms, skin rash, memory loss, dizziness, peripheral numbness, and sleep disturbances. A 1996 VA study (Kang et al. 1996) reported that Gulf War veterans were 50% more likely to die in a motor vehicle accident than military personnel not sent to the Gulf War. W. Haley, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, reported similar findings but added in an article published by the Associated Press that the Gulf War veteran also has a higher rate of depression and suicide. Haley correlated these findings medically with individuals who have sustained brain injuries (Haley 1997; 1998; Haley et al. 1997a; 1997b).

Between August 1990 and March 1991, the U.S. deployed more than 697,000 troops in Operation Desert Shield and Operation Desert Storm. The majority of the troops were stationed in Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, or aboard ships in the Red Sea. Of these, more than 100,000 (one in seven) have reported serious health concerns to the Department of Veterans Affairs or the Department of Defense. Unfortunately, some family members of those stricken gradually display signs and symptoms of the syndrome as well, suggesting an infectious explanation of the illness.

Speculative Causes of GWS

Nutritionally oriented clinicians subscribe to the rationale, "If you can't eat it, don't smell it." This caveat was not possible to heed in the Gulf War environment. More than 500 oil well fires were burning in Kuwait during June 1991, emitting extremely high levels of particulate matter. Detections of sarin, a potentially fatal nerve gas, tabun, a neuroparalytic toxic agent, and sulfur mustard gas were reported during the period of January 19-21, 1991. Troops responsible for cleaning up Iraqi ammunition dumps may have been exposed to depleted uranium, a form of uranium used in munitions because of its density and metallurgical properties. Korenyi-Both et al. (1992) reported that the combination of Saudi dust and pigeon droppings ignited an acute hyperallergic reaction that has come to be known as Desert Storm pneumonitis or Al Eskan disease. There are those who question whether the very preventative measures--drugs and vaccinations--employed to protect the troops from chemical or biological warfare may be the agents provoking the illness. Confounding the inquest, manifestations of the syndrome are unpredictable. Just as cancer can occur long after exposure to the causative factor, the complications arising from GWS can be just as unpredictable.

Techletter.com

How Much of a Health Risk, Really?

There has always been controversy about the degree of human health risk posed by pigeons

Photo by Larry Pinto

Pest control experts and public health specialists warn that there are dozens of different human pathogens associated with pigeons, including some that can be dangerous or even deadly. Many experts feel that pigeons are a significant health risk to people.

Pigeon fanciers, wildlife groups, and other public health experts scoff at this claim, insisting that the human health risks from pigeons are exaggerated and that pigeons do not pose a significant disease risk to people.

Well, who's right?

What Science Tells Us

Without a doubt, pigeons carry human pathogens. A study from the University of Basel in Switzerland identified 60 different microorganisms associated with feral pigeons that were capable of causing human disease. Fungi accounted for the majority of microorganisms with 45 represented, 9 were bacteria, 5 were viruses, and one was a protozoan.

Risks in Old Pigeon Roosts

Disease organisms can grow in long-standing accumulations of bird droppings and cause respiratory risks to workers and people in the area if the droppings are disturbed

Photo by Larry Pinto

Yet there are certain situations where studies have shown that feral pigeons do pose significant health risks. Large and long-standing pigeon roosts can present significant health risks to people in the area and to bird control workers and roost cleanup crews. The most significant risks come from the disease organisms causing histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis, which may grow in and under bird droppings. Both are respiratory diseases, usually with no symptoms or mild, flu-like symptoms, but occasionally resulting in serious, and even deadly infections.

Histoplasmosis is usually associated with bird (including pigeon) and bat droppings on soil; cryptococcosis with old pigeon roosts in attics, water towers, steeples, cupolas, and similar sites on structures. Both diseases are spread when droppings are disturbed and fungal spores (for histoplasmosis) or yeast-like vegetative cells (for cryptococcosis) swirl into the air and are inhaled, either by workers in the area or by people downwind.

There is a lesser known but also dangerous health threat associated with bird roosts. Allergenic hypersensitivity pneumonitis is a potentially disabling lung disease, not caused by an infectious agent, but by an allergic reaction to airborne debris from bird feathers, droppings, and other bird proteins. Experts estimate that from one to five percent of individuals exposed to bird proteins (antigens) will develop symptoms.

Conclusions

The answer to the question, how much of a disease risk do feral pigeons pose to people, is this: In general, there appears to be little risk to the general public from normal day-to-day contact with pigeons in parks, yards, balconies, etc. However, some groups are at greater risk, and some situations require special safety precautions. Since people with depressed immune systems are particularly susceptible to some of the human pathogens carried by pigeons, flocks of pigeons should not be tolerated around hospitals, nursing homes, medical clinics, and other similar sites.

Bird work in long-standing pigeon roosts both indoors and outdoors require special safety precautions (see below) to minimize the risk that pest control workers or people in the surrounding areas inhale dust which contains the organisms that cause histoplasmosis or cryptococcosis, or allergens associated with the roost.

http://www.wildlifepatrol.com/pigeon-disease.html

HEALTH HAZARDS ASSOCIATED WITH BIRD AND BAT DROPPINGS

Health risks from birds and bats are often exaggerated. Nevertheless, large populations of roosting birds may present the risk of disease to people nearby. The most serious health risks arise from disease organisms that can grow in the nutrient-rich accumulations of bird droppings, feathers and debris under a roost - particularly if roosts have been active for years. External parasites also may become a problem when infested birds or bats leave roosts or nests. The parasites then can invade buildings and bite or irritate people.

Histoplasmosis

"After a small group of students raked and swept a 20-year accumulation of dirt, leaves, and debris in a middle school's courtyard on Earth Day–1970, nearly 400 people (mostly students) developed histoplasmosis. (92) The school's forced-air ventilation system, which had fresh air intakes in the courtyard, was implicated as being primarily responsible for spreading contaminated air throughout the school. Results of the outbreak investigation showed that a few students developed histoplasmosis despite being absent from school on the day when the courtyard was cleaned. This finding suggests that exposures to spore-contaminated dust continued for a day or more after cleaning of the courtyard was stopped."(NIOSH - National Institute of Safety and Health)

Histoplasmosis is caused by a fungus (Histoplasma capsulatum). The disease is transmitted to humans by airborne fungus spores from soil contaminated by pigeon and starling droppings (as well as from the droppings of other birds and bats). The soil under a roost usually has to have been enriched by droppings for two years or more for the disease organism to reach significant levels. Although almost always associated with soil, the fungus has been found in droppings (particularly from bats) alone, such as in an attic.

Infection occurs when spores, carried by the air are inhaled - especially after a roost has been disturbed. Most infections are mild and produce either no symptoms or a minor influenza- like illness. On occasion, the disease can cause high fever, blood abnormalities, pneumonia and even death. In some areas, including portions of Illinois, up to 80 percent of the population show evidence of previous infection.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has reported a potentially blinding eye condition - presumed ocular histoplasmosis syndrome (OHS) - that probably results from the fungus. NIH estimates that 4 percent of those exposed to the disease are at risk of developing OHS.

Cryptococcosis

Pigeon droppings appear to be the most important source of the disease fungus Cryptococcus neoformans in the environment. The fungus is typically found in accumulations of droppings around roosting and nesting sites, for example, attics, cupolas, ledges and water towers. It has been found in as many as 84 percent of samples taken from old roosts. Even when old and dry, bird droppings can be a significant source of infection.

Like histoplasmosis, most cryptococcosis infections are mild and may be without symptoms. Persons with weakened immune systems, however, are more susceptible to infection. The disease is acquired by inhaling the yeast-like cells of the organism. Two forms of cryptococcosis occur in humans. The generalized form begins with a lung infection and spreads to other areas of the body, particularly the central nervous system, and is usually fatal unless treated. The cutaneous (skin) form is characterized by acne-like skin eruptions or ulcers with nodules just under the skin. The cutaneous form is very rare, however, without generalized (systemic) disease. Outbreaks (multiple cases at a location) of cryptococcosis have not been documented.

Other diseases

Other diseases carried or transmitted by birds affect man to a lesser degree. Psittacosis and toxoplasmosis are normally mild in man; however, serious illness or death does occur rarely. Pigeons and sparrows also have been implicated (along with many other species of birds) as sources of encephalitis viruses carried by mosquitoes.

Ticks, mites and other parasites

Bird or bat roosts can harbor parasites that may invade buildings. Although these parasites can bite and irritate, they are unlikely to transmit diseases to humans. The northern fowl mite and chicken mite are usually the main culprits. Other parasites that may cause problems inside buildings include the pigeon nest bug and the bat bug (both related to the beg bug), soft ticks, biting lice and the pigeon fly. Although most parasites associated with bird or bat roosts die quickly after the birds or bats leave, some may live for several weeks.

Droppings, feathers, food and dead birds under a roosting area can breed flies, carpet beetles and other insects that may become major problems in the immediate area. These pests may fly through open windows or crawl through cracks to enter buildings. If birds or bats are discouraged from roosting around buildings, most of the parasites associated with them will soon die. If the pests are a problem, the roost area should be treated with a residual insecticide appropriately labeled by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for control of fleas, ticks, mites and similar pests.

http://acwm.co.la.ca.us/pdf/pigeon­pdf.pdf

DISEASES

Pigeon feces deposited on cars, statues,

park benches, and buildings is not only

unsightly, but also accelerates deterioration

especially to buildings. Pigeon nests may

clog drain pipes, interfere with awnings, and

make fire escapes unsafe. Pigeons are

infested with many external parasites

including mites, fleas, ticks, and bugs many

of which will readily bite people. These

parasites frequently will invade homes from

pigeon nests located in or on the building.

Pigeons are the carriers of diseases such as

salmonella and others that affect humans and

domestic animals alike.

In rural areas, pigeons can cause crop losses

by feeding on small grains and fruits in the

field, contamination of food stuffs destined for

live stock and humans, and the dissemination

of diseases to farm animals.

Pigeons can threaten human safety around

airports where there is a possibility for flocks to

collide with in-flight aircraft. There have been

several instances of jet aircraft engines failing

when they collide with bird flocks, causing

human fatalities.

Pigeons displace native birds as a result of

these aggressive invaders out competing them

for food and nesting sites.

Legal Status

Diseases

Domestic pigeons are known to carry many

diseases, leading many vector control

professionals to describe them as "flying rats".

The following is a list of diseases of

significance to humans: psittacosis, Newcastle

Disease, aspergillosis, pseudo tuberculosis,

pigeon coccidiosis, toxoplasmosis,

encephalitis, and Salmonella typhimurium.

Except for the last three, the others are vary

rarely found in humans. Salmonella is found in

approximately 2% of pigeon feces and is

statistically the most frequent cause of

salmonella poisoning in humans which often is

diagnosed as food poisoning. It can be

prevented by washing hands and raw food

before meals.

Cryptococusis and Histoplasmosis are

systemic fungal diseases that can be

contracted from dry pigeon feces.

Histoplasmosis can affect the respiratory

system and, in severe cases, can be fatal.

http://www.spiegel.de/international/germany/0,1518,515713,00.html

Pigeons still enjoy a considerably better reputation than rats, which suffered a lasting PR setback by spreading the Black Death.

But the birds can and do spread diseases, allergies and parasites to humans. Haag-Wackernagel says many everyday illnesses including allergies can be attributed to human proximity to the birds which carry salmonella, lung illnesses, fleas, ticks and a host of other ailments -- something to think about when surrounded by flapping pigeons in town squares or outdoor cafes.

Pregnant women, children, the elderly and people infected with HIV are particularly at risk from contact with pigeons, said Haag-Wackernagel.

http://www.rejexit.com/PDFs/RejexitPigeon_Web.pdf

Pigeon Problems

Pigeons nest in buildings and structures with flat surfaces. Their numbers can

quickly build up depending on availability of food sources. Every place where

pigeons nest, there is an accumulation of droppings.

• Contact with pigeon droppings may pose a health risk.

• Nesting materials can cause blockage to gutters and rainwater pipes, which

could result in penetrating dampness and structure damage.

• Pigeon droppings make buildings look unsightly and can cause corrosion.

• Droppings can foul footpaths, fire escapes and sidewalks, which then become

slippery and hazardous.2 The pollution is then carried and transferred into

buildings.

1 http://www.unitedwildlife.com/AnimalsPigeons.html, 2006.

2 http://www.croydon.gov.uk, 2006.

Disease Pigeons Humans

Histoplasmosis

Cryptococcosis

Toxoplasmosis

Ornithosis

Encephalitis

Salmonella

Newcastle disease

Ref: Rid-A-Bird, Inc. 1217 W. Third St. Wilton, IA 52778

PIGEONS ARE CARRIERS OF A NUM BER OF DISEASES

Pigeons are carriers of a number of diseases, some of which are

transmitted to humans. They also harbor fleas, mites and other insects

in their nests. They are often referred to as flying rats for these reasons.

Pigeons carry pigeon ornithosis (psittacosis) encephalitis, Newcastle

disease, toxoplasmosis, salmonella food poisoning and other diseases.

Pigeon ectoparasites such as mites, fleas, ticks, and bugs may readily

bite people.

HISTO PLASMOSIS

Histoplasmosis is a fungus disease contracted through airborne spores

in pigeon droppings. If these birds have been on your roof for a while,

these spores can even infect the soil you garden in down below. Its

symptoms may be anything from a mild influenza to blood abnormalities

and fever, or even death. An eye condition has been linked to the birds

disease histoplasmosis and can lead to blindness in those who contract it.

CR YPTOCOCCOSIS

Cryptococcosis, one of the commonly carried pigeon diseases, infects

the lungs of humans. It is transmitted by inhaling the yeast-like cells of

the organism. Cryptococcosis can also cause acne-like ulcers on the skin.

TO XOPLASMOSIS

Toxoplasmosis is an infection that invades human tissue and can

severely damage the central nervous system, especially in babies.

Pregnant women are in extreme danger if infected with toxoplasmosis.

ORNIT HOSIS

Ornithosis causes fever, chills, fatigue, a rash and lung problems such

as shortness of breath and a cough. It can also lead to rales, which are

small clicking, bubbling or rattling sounds coming from the lung.1

Diseases Associated With Pigeons

RejeX-it® P.O. Box 6015, Fort Wayne, IN 46896

Toll free phone: 1-866-53-BIRDS (1-866-532-4737) Fax: 1-260-447-7827

www.rejexit.com

http://acwm.co.la.ca.us/pdf/pigeon­pdf.pdf

Pigeons

Identification

Pigeons are

infested with many external parasites

including mites, fleas, ticks, and bugs many

of which will readily bite people. These

parasites frequently will invade homes from

pigeon nests located in or on the building.

Pigeons are the carriers of diseases such as

salmonella and others that affect humans and

domestic animals alike.

In rural areas, pigeons can cause crop losses

by feeding on small grains and fruits in the

field, contamination of food stuffs destined for

live stock and humans, and the dissemination

of diseases to farm animals.

Pigeons can threaten human safety around

airports where there is a possibility for flocks to

collide with in-flight aircraft. There have been

several instances of jet aircraft engines failing

when they collide with bird flocks, causing

human fatalities.

Pigeons displace native birds as a result of

these aggressive invaders out competing them

for food and nesting sites.

Legal Status

Feral pigeons are not protected by federal or

state statute. Band-Tails are classified as a

migratory game bird and you must obtain a

permit from the California Department of Fish

and Game before attempting to control them.

The scaring or herding of Band-Tails can be

done without a permit. Antwerp or homing

pigeons are the domestic birds that have a

band on their leg indicating that they belong to

someone. It is a misdemeanor to kill them. It

is important that you check around your

neighborhood for pigeon hobbyists before you

begin a control program to avoid any

accidental removal of their birds. There may

be municipal restrictions on the taking or

methods of taking pigeons under their

jurisdiction. Always check if there are any

local laws or licenses that must be obtained

before beginning any control project.

Diseases

Domestic pigeons are known to carry many

diseases, leading many vector control

professionals to describe them as "flying rats".

The following is a list of diseases of

significance to humans: psittacosis, Newcastle

Disease, aspergillosis, pseudo tuberculosis,

pigeon coccidiosis, toxoplasmosis,

encephalitis, and Salmonella typhimurium.

Except for the last three, the others are vary

rarely found in humans. Salmonella is found in

approximately 2% of pigeon feces and is

statistically the most frequent cause of

salmonella poisoning in humans which often is

diagnosed as food poisoning. It can be

prevented by washing hands and raw food

before meals.

Cryptococusis and Histoplasmosis are

systemic fungal diseases that can be

contracted from dry pigeon feces.

Histoplasmosis can affect the respiratory

system and, in severe cases, can be fatal.

http://www.birdmanagement.com/diseases2.html

COMMON BIRD-TRANSMITTED DISEASES

Bacterial Diseases

Erysipeloid-Pigeons(Erysipelas, Erysipelas, Erysipelotrix, Sr. 's Disease, St. 's fire, Diamond skin disease) Affects: HumansWhen affecting humans, it usually appears as an eruption of the skin, being slightly swollen, bright red or dark violet colored to almost black and blue. It generally starts in a wound or small break in the skin, and is accompanied with a sensation of burning, throbbing pain and intense itching. The infection often starts on the face, but may affect any part of the body. There may headaches, chills, pain in the joints and prostration, fever and vomiting. It is sometimes fatal, especially to young children or old or infirm people.

Pasteurellosis or Fowl Cholera: PigeonsAffects: HumansFowl typhoid is caused y Salmonella Gallinarum. Pigeons are subject to the disease and help disseminate it through their feces.

Wednesday, April26, 2000

Listeriosis: (Circling disease)Affects: HumansIt is a gram positive bacterial disease caused by wisteria monacytogenes. The disease causes changes in the cells of the nervous system. Humans occasionally have an inflammation of the inner eyelid (conjunctivitis), endocarditis and skin infections. It can also cause meningitis in newborns, abortions, premature delivery, stillbirth and death within a few days.

Pasteurellosis: (Shipping Fever)Affects: HumansThe acute infectious disease is caused by a highly contagious gram-negative bacteria Pasturella multocida. The bacteria are usually considered as a secondary invader, which may strike suddenly. The disease in humans may be divided into 4 groups of Syndremas: (1) Infection of the upper respiratory tract as a nasal discharge, of inflammation of the inner surface of the eyelid (conjunctivitis); (2) Infection of the lower respiratory tract as bronchitis, or pneumonia; (3) Infection of the internal organs as appendicitis or inflammation of the urinary bladder; (4) Abscessed wound infections caused by bytes of sctcher from cats or dogs. Pigeons are subject to the disease and can spread it through their droppings or nasal discharges. The organism can live as long as a month in pigeon dropping or 3 months in a dead pigeon.

Salmonellosis: Food poisoning, gastroenteritis, paratyphoid, typhoidAffects: HumansSalmonellosis is more than just food poisoning. Pigeons are important factors in the spread of salmonellosis, since the bacteria are left wherever the pigeons defecate. Pigeons trample back and for the through their copious excretions on ledges and air intake vents. The dust enters through air conditioners and ventilators. S. Typhimurium var. Copenhagen is the most common salmonella isolated from pigeons. Salmonellosis affects humans and all domestic animals. Salmonellosis in humans may manifest itself in one or more of four types (1) temporary carriage without infection (2) Gastroenteritis (food poisoning) (3) enteric fever septicemia (blood poisoning) (4) Persistent infection

Mycotic or Fungal Diseases

Blastomycosis: Glichrists DiseaseAffects: Humans Blastomycosis is a chronic, systemic fungal disease that affects humans. The disease affects the lungs. It is caused by Blastomyces Dermatitidis. The main route of infection is by inhalation of spores. The disease is infectious but is not contagious. Humans and animals are terminal hosts for the organism.Major symptoms in humans include loss of weight, fever, cough, and bloody sputum and chest pains. The infection often starts on the face or neck with thickly crusted purple ulcers. The disease may disseminate into the skin, bones, or urogenital tract. One epidemic of human blast mycosis involved seven people under sixteen within a 4-mile area.

Cryptococcosis: (European blast mycosis, Torula, Torulosis, Yeast Meningitis)Affects: HumansThe disease is caused by a systemic pathogenic yeast called Cryptococcus Neoformans, which is found worldwide. Cryptococcosis in humans usually begins as a primary infection of the lungs. There are no visible early symptoms may include cough, chest pain, weight loss, fever or dizziness. The disease may be in the lungs, mucous membranes, bones, and joints, with no organ or tissue of the body exempt. It very frequently involves the brain covering as cryptococcal meningitis. The central nervous system involvement usually follows the pulmonary disease. Pigeon excreta is the most common source of C. Neoformans. The yeast is carried in the intestinal tract of pigeons. Pulmonary cryptococcsis has occurred in the workmen who have been exposed to the yeast while demolishing old buildings where pigeons had roosted. Most of the cryptococcal infections occur from inhalation of the fungas along with the dust from areas enriched with pigeons manure. The entrance may also be through the gastrointestinal tract.

HistoplasmosisAffects: HumansIt is an important systemic fungal disease caused by Histoplasma Capsulatum. It is interesting to note that the disease was suggested for consideration as a biological warfare agent at one time because of its air borne route. Histoplasmosis is an environmental disease acquired from the dust. The organism is an air pollutant. H. Capsulatum is a tiny soil organism that id dispersed into the air when the soil is disturbed. It is predominately found in the soils enriched by feces. There are 2 phases. A mycelia phase grows in the soil and bears spores, which are dispersed into the air when the soil is disturbed. The yeast phase grows within the body to produce disease. It usually begins 11 to 14 days after heavy exposure. Histosplasmosis is probably the second most significant fungus disease. It is infectious but not contagious. The "summer flu" that Midwesterners use to get often is now thought to have been histosplasmosis. Histoplasmosis basically is a pulmonary or respiratory disease, but may extend to the liver, lymph nodes, and spleen; it may disseminate to the blood and bone marrow and be fatal. The victim frequently has chills and fever to 105 degrees, night sweats, chest pains, and fatigued. A non-productive cough is fairly common. The organism may lodge in the eye to cause ocular histoplasmosis. It may affect either eyes, or only one eye. In some cases it affects the peripheral vision. In other cases the victim loses the center vision or functional eyesight of one eye. For many years pulmonary histosplasmosis was diagnosed as tuberculosis because of its TB like characteristics. The calcified tubercles of histo and TB look just alike on an X-ray. One report indicated that as many as 6% of the patients in TB sanitariums may be victims of H. Capsulatum rather that Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The pigeon's feces fertilize the soil in such a way as to give the fungus competitive advantage over soil microorganisms. The fungus does not grow in fresh droppings. It is, however, detectable in starling roosts generally after they have been established at least 3 years. The histo spores need warmth and moisture to flourish. H. Capsulatum actively grows and multiplies in soil as a saprophyte and does not merely reside there in a passive state. Even long departed flocks may massively infect human beings intent on picking up the mess they have left behind.

Protozal Diseases

American Trypanosomiasis and pigeons: (Chargas Disease) Affects: Humans This disease organism may be found in humans. It results from an infection caused by the protozoan Trypanosomas cruzi. It is sometimes referred to as Chargas Disease. Most of the people infected by this disease will die early of heart disease. The disease is transmitted through the feces of infected triatomine bugs such as the conenose or pigeon kissing bug (Triatoma rubrofasciata). The bugs tend to feed at night while the victim is asleep, so the individual is usually not aware of what has happened. The bug defecates during or soon after engorement. The infective states of the parasite are able to enter the wound. Itching from the bite may occur, and then as the victim scratches, he may disseminate the parasite to regions of the mucous membranes of the eyes or mucous membranes following a bite. The response to the disease infection can vary from swelling of the face, eye, or other parts of the body at the site of invasion, to a fatal outcome. Death may occur in 2 to 4 weeks. The disease is of great importance to humans, especially young children. It has been found near and Corpus Christi, Texas. Pigeon kissing bugs have been found on pigeons.

ToxoplasmosisAffects: Humans Toxoplasmosis may be one of the most widespread zoonotic diseases in the United States. It is common in humans. It is a parasitic infection caused by an intracellular protozoa Toxoplasma godii antibody. Toxopasmosis is extremely common in humans, but most infections are not apparent. Toxoplasmosis has been shown to cause abortions in women. The organism seems to have infinity for brain tissue. The disease may cause many problems, including mental retardation and death. The disease may be present at birth it is considered congenital and transmitted through the placenta from infected mothers to their unborn offspring. The parasite can be transferred to humans who eat or handle raw meat. The disease may result in abortion, stillbirth or prematurity. The infant may go on to develop problems months or years later. These may include inflammation of the retina, strabismus (deviation of the eyes, which the patient cannot overcome), and blindness, hydrocephalous (accumulation of fluid in the brain cavity), abnormal smallness of the head, cerebral calcifications, mental retardation, epilepsy and deafness. The acquired (non-congenital) form may affect the central nervous system and exhibit symptoms ranging from headaches, slight fever, drowsiness, disorientation and fatigue to encephalitis and fatal pneumonia. A serious outbreak occurred in Atlanta, Georgia, in October 1977, among 29 people who were patrons of a riding stable. The disease may also involve an ophthalmic form which may be congenital or acquired, with some of the implications previously listed under congenital. The disease was first discovered in humans in 1923 when an ophthalmologist, found parasitic cysts in the retina of a young child. Pigeons frequently transmit toxopasmosis through fecal contamination, respiratory droplets, eye secretions, contact with infected tissue or through ectoparasites.

Rickettsial & Chlamydial Diseases

Clamydiosis: Parrot fever, Ornithosis, Psittacosis, Bedsonia Infection. Affects: Humans Clamydiosis is one of the well known avian associated diseases that affects humans. The disease is caused by Chlamdia psittaci. Human infections are often mild, even symptomatic, but may be severe enough to cause death. Mortality is usually restricted to the old, the weak, or those with concurrent diseases. Virulent strains may cause death rates up to 20%. Two hospital nurses died after taking care of a man who had the disease. Incubation time following exposure may range from 4 to 15 days but is commonly 10 days. This disease is a major occupational disease of USDA bird quarantine station personnel in Miami, Florida. Pigeons are often chronically infected with chlamydial organisms, though the infection does not progress to clinical disease. Pigeons have infected humans with Clamydiosis on many occasions. It is becoming very evident in recent years that pigeons may provide an even greater reservoir than psittacine birds.

Viral Diseases

EncephalitisAffects: Humans Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain. It is a general name for a series of primary viral disease causing damage to the central nervous system, including the brain and other nerve tissues. It usually causes drowsiness, and a slowing down of both mental and physical facilities. The three principal birds related arthropod-borne viruses that cause encephalitis includes Eastern equine encephalomyelitis (EEE), Western equine encephalomyelitis (WEE), and St. Louis encephalitis (SLE). Pigeons are amplifying host in the bird-related viruses. Pigeons are considered a reservoir and amplifying host for the virus. It was isolated from the brain of pigeons during the Massachusetts epidemic of 1938, which involved both people and horses. It was also isolated from pigeons in a field study conducted at Hockamock Swamp, Massachusetts.

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http://ezinearticles.com/?Pigeon-Control---An-Urban-Menace & id=1041428

Few things capture the mind like an astonishing view of the New York Skyline or the magnificence of the Sears Tower or perhaps the sun glancing off of the Golden Gate Bridge. Upon close inspection of these elaborate structures, however, an enemy may be lurking. Perhaps nothing ruins the aesthetic quality of this scenery like pigeon droppings which show up on window ledges, roofs, sides of buildings, walkways, and anywhere else birds have access. As unattractive as these noxious deposits can be, they pose a much greater threat - that is, to the health and safety of the population that is exposed to it. Not only can pigeon droppings weaken the support of these structures, they also carry numerous diseases that invade the human body not only through contact, but also merely from exposure.

Pigeons Pose a Health Risk

According to the San Francisco Chronicle, "Pigeon droppings can be more than a nuisance; they can be a vector for disease, especially histoplasmosis,"2 a serious condition affecting the lungs with symptoms similar to the flu. This is performed when pigeons take in histoplasma capsulatum fungal spores and excrete them where people inhale them.

Pigeon droppings are a serious problem as demonstrated in such places as Lake Havasu City, Arizona where Earl Siler heads the Pigeon Abatement Committee. According to Lake Havasu's associated press, "Siler cites reports from federal health officials saying pigeon droppings carry dozens of germs such as those that cause meningitis and the fungal diseases histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis."1 Pigeon droppings are particularly dangerous in areas surrounding water sources or air vents where the germs have easy access to infestation of the human body.

Additional diseases inflicted by pigeon excretion include ocular histoplasmosis, avian flu, West Nile virus, encephalitis, and toxoplasmosis. More severely, they can cause deadly diseases such as salmonella, meningitis, and E. coli, which by no means exhaust the list of the illnesses carried by pigeons. As The Queens Courier comments, "This is not just a matter of image but of public health."3

Direct contact with pigeon droppings is not necessary to obtain the negative effects. The droppings, once dry, can become airborne and cause a higher risk of inhalation. Exposure to these fungi can infect the body without touching them with the skin.

Pigeons cause problems other than just disease which is the major concern that poses a health risk. Pigeons also attract other insects that can spread illness. In addition, lawsuits have been filed nationwide for problems resulting from bird droppings whether it is from slipping on them or contracting a disease. Pigeon nuisance also causes liability issues with restaurants where customers have contracted disease from pigeons.

Pigeon Droppings Are Corrosive

The acidic nature of pigeon droppings wears down structures such as bridges and buildings. Unfortunately this may not be widespread knowledge until the event of a serious disaster. Unbeknownst to most people, pigeon droppings erode the support of structures to the point where they are at high risk of collapsing as evidenced by the case of the Minnesota Bridge.

Pigeon control has been a prevalent issue plaguing city leaders throughout the country. According to United Wildlife Control, "Even when pigeons are outside of your home or business, droppings, nest paraphernalia and feathers can get sucked into vents and drain pipes and create a fire hazard, leading to thousands of dollars in repairs."4 Clearly the easiest way to protect people and buildings from pigeon damage is to prevent their welcome in the first place.

ALSO SEE: (important info.)

http://stopptak.com.pl/eur/infopage.php?id=1

http://www.bostonmagazine.com/articles/the_secret_lives_of_doctors/

The Secret Lives of Doctors

Years ago I had a patient who under the current guidelines might not have survived. Mrs. White was in her fifties. She came in with difficulty breathing. She was irritable and demanding, and I had a hard time reaching a good relationship with her. Mrs. White's blood count was abnormal, showing some kind of infection, cancer, or allergy. Her health was like that of a smoker, but she had never smoked in her life and didn't live with anyone who did. Her husband and children were gone, and she rented out rooms in her house. No one could diagnose the woman, who continued to get worse. One night, I stayed after hours to work on her case. I sat and talked with her, focusing on a more detailed history of her home life. It turned out that one of the people to whom Mrs. White rented a room was a magician. He kept his pigeons in the basement, alongside the washer/dryer. When Mrs. White did laundry, the exhaust from the dryer kicked up the dust from the pigeon droppings into an aerosol, which she inhaled. The magician had lived there for seven years. I couldn't believe my ears. I went to the hospital library and uncovered "pigeon breeder's lung disease," the symptoms of which fit Mrs. White perfectly. The next day, I presented the case to the team, to much admiration. The treatment? A course of steroids—and evicting the pigeons. Mrs. White did well, along with the magician.