Humans catch disease at bird fairs?

[Missi]

Hi all, sorry if this had already been asked.

Is it possible for a humans to catch a disease at a bird fair if one was not to touch the parrot? I know it is advised to change clothes and shower before handling your own bird after visiting a fair.

I ask because my friend invited me to a bird fair in February. She is looking for a pair of Finches. We are both hypocondriacs hehe Plus I don't want to bring anything home to Jasmine. I personally, don't really want to contract something like, of say, Psittacosis, either.

Thanks!

[Joel]

Don't have the so called all important "documented proof" (edited - keev) regarding catching stuff in the air like germs/diseases from feather dust/dander/etc.) for ya but IMO, there is probably a remote chance to catch something there that may harm you or your fids. JMO if ya want to even consider opinion and some articles by other people on the net.

[RingneckedPrincess]

Exactly Joel...I've been to so many fairs nowadays...haven't gotten any birds there but toys and other stuff.

Haven't gotten anything yet *knock on wood*

Dani

[Doyle'sMommy]

I have been to birds fairs and haven't gotten anything, neither have the fids. I always change clothes and wash my hands really well before handling the fids.

I am just going to answer your question or at least attempt it.

Of course you can catch something... The possibility exists anywhere one goes, if it aint from contracting from the show... I am not saying they are prone to it, but think about it. The show probably takes as many cautionionary and preventable steps to curb any problems that might exist or arise that they can possible control.

The show operators probably inspect or filter who shoes birds to a certain degree but they don't inspect the person itself selling the birds... I mean how does one know where they have been? Let alone bird fair / shows do not know that the person visiting the fair/show isnt the cause and not the vendor itself... Everyone is touching the cages, looking at toys, yada yada... I think you just need to take as manyy preventable steps as possible on your own part. Wash clothes, hands, shower, I mean what else can you do... other than wash thr products you may have perchased... just my 2 cents.

[Missi]

I guess I rather meant to ask is it a well known issue and is it worth risking it to go just for fun.

Thanks for everyone's imput. I think I'll go

[kateBird]

i've personally went to two. i didnt buy any birds, but i got great deals on cages (SEALED in boxes and stored in a truck outside), cleaners and toys. i have not had any problems with my birds after visiting the bird fair. and it was amazing how much you can save on all bird stuff.

Missi, you know the precautionary steps to follow when you get back home...go to the bird fair and im sure you will have a lot of fun.

[Miro The Macaw]

You CAN catch something. Sure. But- Is it a high enough risk to avoid going? I wouldn't think so. I have been to many. I take the 'normal' precautions, I use hand sanitizer before and after handling birds there (Most dealers require this anyway), and change before I handle my own birds once I get back. You can't eliminate the risk 100%- But then again everywhere you go you are potentially exposed to SOMETHING- Are you just going to stay inside all day?

-Andrew

[irlgirl]

when I thought about it after reading this, what about the birds that are being taken to the bird fairs they would have to be at more risk of catching something.I think you should go missi and take some piccies for us to see please(are you allowed to take photos at those kinda things?).

[birdsnthings]

Edited: Please see rules...