Pigeon Poop Can Lead To Health Hazards In Asthma Patients In Bengaluru; Know Pigeon Poop Related Health Risks

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There have been increasing concerns about the safety of pigeons in Bangalore due to the growing pigeon population. Experts say that pigeon poop is linked to an increased risk of hypersensitive pneumonitis (HP) and other lung infections [1].

The same issue was reported back in 2016, and in 2020 - where in Mumbai, pigeon poop was cited as the reason for lung failure in two women.

Is Pigeon Poop Toxic To Humans?

There are several diseases associated with pigeon droppings, including Cryptococcosis, Histoplasmosis, and Psittacosis. These diseases are spread by inhaling dust that is created when droppings are cleaned.

In general, the risk of pigeon-related diseases is very low. People with compromised immune systems are most vulnerable to these diseases [2].

A study conducted by veterinary microbiologists from the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University (KVAFSU) found that bird droppings contain more than 60 different types of pathogens [3].

The droppings of pigeons contain a bacteria called Psittacosis (also known as ornithosis) which may cause lung infection and hardening of lungs in humans.

How Does Pigeon Poop Cause Illnesses?

A single or even repeated exposure to the droppings of pigeons may not cause hypersensitive pneumonitis, however, prolonged exposure does [4].

If you feed pigeons regularly, their droppings are in and around your home, and inhaling them regularly can cause serious respiratory problems. The best intervention is to reduce exposure.

Can Pigeon Poop Worsen Asthma?

In asthmatic patients, pigeon droppings can cause bronchitis and trigger asthma attacks because they are highly acidic.

Pigeons can cause a variety of lung diseases, suggests studies. There are several common lung ailments, including asthma, chronic bronchitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis, histoplasmosis, aspergillosis, and cryptococcosis [5].

Among the most common illnesses transmitted by pigeons are a flu-like illness known as Psittacosis, a systemic disease that can lead to atypical pneumonia.

Bangalore - The Asthma Capital Of India

Several ornithologists and urban planners believe that the growing numbers of pigeons are a concern for the city, which has lost its biodiversity and has also gained a reputation for being the 'asthma capital.' Pulmonologists report cases of lung infection and HP.

Bengaluru has not been badly affected by HP in comparison to Mumbai, where there have been over 20 fatalities. However, the culture of feeding and rearing pigeons in Bengaluru is a cause for concern [6].

Furthermore, they noted that public awareness is crucial to keeping HP at bay. On average, 2-3 cases of HP are reported each year. While there are many causes for HP, the majority of patients we treated were either pigeon feeders or were living in close proximity to pigeons.

Truth Or Propaganda?

In Bengaluru, however, pigeon-feeding groups reject the claims as propaganda. It is important to maintain good hygiene when it comes to pigeons, said Vasanthraj R, trustee of Sree Sankeshwara Parshwanath Jain Kaboota Dana Seva Samithi. Pigeon droppings are accepted as a part of daily life, and some people may be affected by their droppings [7].

How To Prevent Diseases Caused By Pigeon Poop?

According to IMA officials, citizens need to be cautious of large populations of pigeons around them, and their surroundings should be kept clean, especially where the birds leave droppings.

This is because pigeons can carry and spread diseases such as salmonella and histoplasmosis, which can be dangerous to humans and other animals [8].

Keeping the environment clean helps to reduce the risk of these diseases being spread.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.