Animal Health and Infectious Diseases

Animal Health and Infectious Diseases

Candidiasis in Illegally Imported Budgerigar Chicks (Melopsittacus undulates): A Case Series with Public Health Implications

Document Type : Original Article

Authors
Shirin Mohammadipour 1
Hadi Tavakkoli 2
Saideh Afrisham 1
Sheyda Sharabiani 3
Mohammad Amir Esmaeili 4
Masoumeh Abed 3
Ghadir shahbazi 5
1 Department of Pathobiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
2 Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman, Kerman, Iran
3 Department of Biology, Faculty of Basic Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Rasht Branch, Rasht, Iran
4 DVM, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Urmia Branch, Urmia, Iran
5 Department of Food Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Islamic Azad University, Shabestar Branch, Shabestar, Iran
10.22034/jahid.2026.2092100.1073
Abstract
Background and Aim: Candidiasis, primarily caused by the yeast Candida albicans, poses significant risks not only to humans but also to various avian species, including pet and ornamental birds. This infection may develop due to factors such as immunosuppression, disruption of the normal microbial flora, and concurrent diseases. Given the increasing popularity of keeping ornamental birds as pets and the associated zoonotic risks, implementing effective preventive measures is of particular importance. The aim of this study was to report the occurrence of candidiasis in breeding parrots and to provide control strategies to reduce the spread of this fungal infection within ornamental bird populations.
Methods: In this study, thirty 2.5‑month‑old parakeet chicks that had been illegally imported through the eastern borders were examined at the Specialized Veterinary Hospital of Shahid Bahonar University of Kerman. These chicks exhibited clinical signs including severe weakness, regurgitation, and progressive weight loss. To confirm the diagnosis, samples from the oropharynx, crop, and feces were collected, and in addition to necropsy evaluation and microbial culture, PCR was performed for the identification of Candida albicans.
Results: Necropsy findings revealed notable pathological alterations, including thickening of the mucosal membranes of the esophagus and crop accompanied by the presence of white pseudomembranes. Laboratory examinations confirmed candidiasis in all sampled birds. These results highlight the urgent need for strict biosecurity measures in the importation of birds.
Conclusion: The illegal importation of ornamental birds may play a significant role in the spread of fungal diseases, including candidiasis. The findings of this study indicate that improper transportation and poor husbandry conditions may contribute to the increased incidence of this infection in chicks. Therefore, implementing sanitary measures—such as a minimum 14‑day quarantine and regular disinfection of facilities housing imported birds—is recommended as essential strategies to reduce the risk of disease transmission.
Keywords
avian health
candidiasis
ornamental birds
public health
Candida albicans
zoonotic diseases
Subjects
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Animal Health and Infectious Diseases
Volume 3, Issue 1
June 2026
Pages 45-51