1. Cryptococcosis: This is a fungal infection caused by the Cryptococcus neoformans and Cryptococcus gattii fungi. It can affect the lungs, causing symptoms such as cough, shortness of breath, and chest pain. Inhalation of aerosolized fungal spores from bird droppings, especially in areas with high pigeon populations, is the primary mode of human infection.
2. Histoplasmosis: This infection is caused by the Histoplasma capsulatum fungus, commonly found in soil contaminated with bird or bat droppings. Inhalation of fungal spores from these contaminated sources can lead to lung disease. Histoplasmosis is more common in certain regions, such as the Ohio River Valley and parts of the Midwest and South in the United States.
3. Psittacosis: Also known as parrot fever or ornithosis, this is a bacterial infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. It can be transmitted to humans through inhalation of aerosolized bacteria from infected birds, particularly parrots, finches, and pigeons. Symptoms include fever, cough, headache, and pneumonia-like illness.
4. Aspergillosis: Aspergillus is a type of fungus that can cause infections in birds, and when humans breathe in the spores, they may develop aspergillosis. The symptoms can include coughing, wheezing, fever, and chest pain.
It's important for people who work closely with birds or are frequently in areas with large bird populations to take precautions to minimize the risk of exposure to these lung diseases. This may involve using respiratory protection, maintaining proper ventilation, and following good hygiene practices.