Chlamydia psittaci

Chlamydia psittaci, formally referred to as Chlamydophila psittaci, is an zoonotic, obligate, intracellular, gram-negative bacterial organism. There are several different strains, each affecting specific bird species' differently. C. psittaci infection in birds is referred to as avian chlamydiosis (AC). Infected birds present with non-specific clinical signs which makes it difficult to diagnose without confirming through laboratory tests.

Survival in Environment: C. psittaci can survive outside the host for several weeks.

Transmission: C. psittaci is transmitted mainly by indirect exposure to feces from infected bird, contact with sick poultry who excrete infectious organisms in discharge from their eyes and beaks, through inhaling it in the dust from the contaminated environment.

Public Health Concern: Being zoonotic, C. psittaci is a public health concern, as it can be transmitted from birds to humans, causing psittacosis. Psittacosis typically causes influenza-like symptoms and can lead to severe pneumonia and nonrespiratory health problems in humans.