What are common symptoms of Psittacosis in humans?

Psittacosis, an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia psittaci, often presents with a range of flu-like symptoms in humans. These symptoms typically include fever, chills, headache, muscle aches, and general malaise, which mimic those seen in respiratory infections. The disease commonly originates from contact with infected birds, particularly parrots, which is why it is often associated with individuals working in close quarters with these animals or those who have pet birds.

The flu-like presentation is essential for identifying and diagnosing psittacosis, as the symptoms can sometimes lead to more severe complications if left untreated. Prompt recognition and treatment are important to reduce the risk of progression to pneumonia or other serious health issues. Thus, flu-like symptoms have a direct correlation with the nature of psittacosis and are considered the hallmark of the disease in affected humans.