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Psittacosis


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Psittacosis

Alternative Names:

Ornithosis; Chlamydia psittaci
Treatment:

The infection is treated with antibiotics, including:

  • Tetracycline
  • Doxycycline
  • Erythromycin
  • Azithromycin
Note: Oral tetracycline is usually not prescribed for children until after all the permanent teeth have erupted. It can permanently discolor teeth that are still forming.
Expectations (prognosis):
text continues below

Full recovery is expected.


Complications:
  • Decreased pulmonary function as a result of the pneumonia
  • Heart valve infection
  • Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver)
  • Brain involvement

Calling your health care provider:

Antibiotics are needed to treat this infection. If you develop symptoms suggestive of psittacosis, call your health care provider.
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