Human flu, colds and budgies

[stace]

I've had conflicting reports on whether budgies can be affected or harmed by human flu and colds. Does anyone know?

I'm heavy with lurgy and Buds wants a kiss and doesn't understand why he ain't getting any.

[birdguhl]

That's funny - I was wondering the same thing recently, esp with cold sore virus. Would be interesting to know.
Hope you're fighting fit again soon, Stace!

[samwiseg]

Correct me if I am wrong, but you cannot transmit your cold to your birds as it has to be a zooinosis which our viruses are not.

However, it is always good to pratcise health and hygiene rules so I always tend to leave the real close contact out but wash my hands every time I go near them.

Dr Sam says dose yourself up stace with paracetamol products and take a week off get well soon!

[lousette]

Get better soon Stace!

[BudgiesBuddy]

Most of our diseases which include the ones that cause common cold and the flu cannot be transmitted to pet birds. However, a pet bird can develop an infection even if the human around him are totally healthy. That is if the bird is exposed to certain viruses and bacteria. Such risks can be controlled and minimized by observing good hygiene practices. Such as…

Cleaning and disinfecting the cage, toys, feeders regularly.

Cleaning the hands thoroughly before touching the bird or food etc.

Not allowing the pet birds to come into contact with saliva by sharing food, or kissing on the beak etc.

Limiting oneself from other birds such as wild birds, pet shops or club meetings (for breeders). I wonder how many of us clean and change before going to bird's cage after coming back from a pet shop with goodies or food.

Feeding the pet bird food and supplements which support and improve his immune system. Strengthening the pet birds’ immune system is very important.

[Hezz]

In short, no.