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Prachtquetzal

Detection of psittacosis in birds:
Prevention for humans and animals

Psittacosis (Chlamydophila psittaci - CPS) is a bacterial infectious disease that affects
birds and is also transmissible to humans (zoonosis).
There are many reasons for requesting laboratory testing for psittacosis.

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WHY IS PROOF IMPORTANT?

Animal health

Respiratory problems, eye discharge, diarrhea - psittacosis can have a serious impact on birds. Detection creates the basis for targeted treatment (antibiotic therapy) and ensures the well-being of your animals.

Human health

Transmissible to humans, psittacosis causes flu-like
Symptoms. Early detection protects people from a potentially dangerous infection. If infection occurs, antibiotic therapy also helps.

Outbreak prevention

Outbreaks of psittacosis can be devastating in bird breeding or zoos. Regular monitoring minimizes risks and maintains the health of populations.

Legal requirements

Psittacosis is strictly regulated in many countries. Our detection helps to meet legal requirements regarding bird trade and keeping.

How does it work?

Prachtquetzal

For reliable detection of the psittacosis pathogen, we recommend a visit to the vet. The vet will perform a so-called triple swab test, in which a single swab is used in the following order:

  1. Conjunctiva of the eye

  2. Nose or throat

  3. Cloaca

It is crucial to follow this order to prevent fecal bacteria from entering the eye. At your request, the veterinarian will send the sample directly to our laboratory for examination.

The pathogen Chlamydophila psittaci is directly detected in our laboratory using the PCR method (polymerase chain reaction). Please note that feathers are not suitable for detecting psittacosis because they do not contain the pathogen. Likewise, we are unable to take blood samples for the detection or determination of antibodies against the pathogen.

Contact

Perhaps you have your own ideas and concepts about what you want from laboratory diagnostics. Please feel free to contact us.

Immermannstraße 65A

40210 Düsseldorf

Germany

kontakt@zk-vet.de

Dr. rer. nat. Sascha Scharf | Laboratory lead (biologist)

0521 4007 6079

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Dr. rer. nat. Alexander Dudziak | Project lead (biologist)

0211 27101 1481

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Daniel Lauck | Laboratory staff (BTA)

0211 27101 1403

Use our contact form

Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.

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