Bird Abatement

IDPH, Prevention & Control Division: Histoplasmosis is perhaps the most important disease acquired from bird droppings. It is caused by inhalation of spores of a soil-inhabiting fungus (Histoplasma capsulatum) that grows where bird droppings accumulate. The greatest risk occurs when droppings accumulate on shaded soil where large numbers of birds (or bats) have established roosts. Disturbing the droppings, e.g., during clean-up attempts, causes the spores to become airborne. Most people who inhale the spores experience mild flu-like symptoms or no symptoms at all. But others, such as those with compromised immune systems and those who inhale large quantities of spores, can develop complications including respiratory problems resembling tuberculosis that can lead to death.

Persons attempting to clean up droppings that have accumulated over two or more years (fresh bird droppings do not support the fungus) should wear personal protection equipment, including respirators with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters, and wet the droppings during removal. Additional guidelines can be found at: http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbb&bdrp.htm.