Psittacosis

Disease Information

Psittacosis is a disease spread from birds to human. It is caused by a bacterium called Chlamydophila psittaci (formerly Chlamydia psittaci). Since 2010, fewer than 10 confirmed cases are reported in the United States each year. More cases may occur that are not correctly diagnosed or reported.

Disease Reporting

What is required?

Health Care Providers and Clinical Laboratories

Health care providers and clinical laboratories are required by law to report cases and suspect cases of psittacosis to local health departments within one working day of identification.

• Health care providers: Use our secure web-based confidential reporting system – OR – use the confidential PDF reporting form.
• See How and Where to Report for more information and local health department contacts.

For Local Health Departments

• Psittacosis Compendium from NASPHV  (pdf)
• Psittacosis Case Report Form (pdf)

See Also

• CDC's web page on Psittacosis
• Compendium of Measures to Control Chlamydophila psittaci Infection Among Humans (Psittacosis) and Pet Birds (Avian Chlamydiosis), 2017 (pdf)