SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/bird-psittacosis-human-symptoms

What symptoms can psittacosis cause in people?

People may get fever, cough, headache and muscle aches.

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  1. Fever and a dry cough ✔
  2. Blue skin
  3. Swollen ankles only

Why: In people, psittacosis looks like other breathing illnesses. CDC lists dry cough, fever and chills, headache and muscle aches as the most common symptoms.

Huh, didn't know that: Most people start feeling sick 5 to 14 days after being exposed.

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References

Answer: Fever and a dry cough. In people, psittacosis looks like other breathing illnesses. CDC lists dry cough, fever and chills, headache and muscle aches as the most common symptoms.

  1. About Psittacosis (CDC) www.cdc.gov/psittacosis/about/index.html
    Most people begin developing signs and symptoms within 5 to 14 days after exposure to the bacteria.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. About Psittacosis (CDC) www.cdc.gov/psittacosis/about/index.html
    Symptoms of psittacosis are similar to the symptoms of other respiratory illnesses.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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