The problem with the 45-60 day regime of tetracyclines is that the antibiotic can cause immunosuppression and intestinal flora alterations that foster fungal overgrowth. Also, tetracyclines are inactivated by calcium and other metallic ions that bind it and prevent absorbtion. The eventual elimination of Chlamydia psittaci is by host cell sloughing and replacement by uninfected cells over the 45-60 day period. The antibiotic will not affect the inactive state of the organism. Baytril may cause some improvement in clinical signs, but it will not keep the organism from multiplying.
Psittacosis is a reportable disease in many states since it can infect humans.
Some avian experts recommend periodic treatment of breeding flocks with tetracyclines once to twice yearly. The benefits must outweigh the risks in these situations, since medicating the birds is not without some problems. Pet shops and bird importation facilities generally may benefit from such a program, but care must be taken, especially with birds actively breeding or being handfed. Lastly, do not expect the USDA quarantine facilities to provide you with Psittacosis-free birds. Although tetracyclines are given in the feed, in cush facilities, birds are frequently not eating well, and the medication may be interrupted if the birds are not eating - so that the carrier state is maintained.