PBFD causes deformed feathers which eventually fall out, the beak softens and becomes misshapen, and affects many of the internal organs. Birds usually die from a secondary infection. The virus can be spread through the feces and feather dust and can be found in the birds' crop as well. It can affect several different species of birds, but is most common among Cockatoos. A curable bacterial disease that can affect BOTH humans and birds.
Psittacosis is spread through inhalation of feather and fecal dust.
Bacterial tests are used to detect it. The disease manifests itself with flu-like symptoms in people. A period of isolation required for new or imported birds. A quarantine period for imported birds was started by the government in the early 1970's. This policy was put into effect to try to reduce the chance of introducing Exotic Newcastle disease to the poultry industry.