Karachi sees rise in pigeon-related lung disease

Karachi has witnessed a rise in cases of Bird Fancier's Lung (BFL), a respiratory illness transmitted from pigeons to humans. The condition is caused by inhaling fine particles from bird feathers or droppings.

Respiratory specialist Dr Muhammad Irfan revealed that private hospitals in the city are reporting 15 to 20 cases of BFL each week, according to a local news website. 

The disease affects those with weak immune systems, while Dr Irfan claimed that a majority of those affected are women. 

Dr Irfan explained that microscopic particles from pigeon feathers and feces accumulate in the respiratory tract, leading to allergies and lung inflammation. These particles often enter homes through open windows or air conditioning systems.

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“Prolonged exposure to environments with high levels of dust or birds can lead to chronic lung disease,” he warned.

Common symptoms of BFL include persistent cough, shortness of breath, fever, and general malaise. For diagnosis, doctors may detect abnormal crackling sounds in the lungs using a stethoscope and recommend further tests such as a CT scan of the chest, bronchoscopy, lung function tests, or an Aspergillosis precipitin blood test.

Treatment may involve steroids, oxygen therapy, or in severe cases, a lung transplant. 

Dr Irfan stressed the importance of avoiding contact with pigeons and taking preventive measures.

Meanwhile, officials at Civil Hospital Karachi reported daily cases of respiratory illness but stated that these are not specifically classified. They added that no female patient has yet been diagnosed with unexplained shortness of breath without an underlying condition.