Long known as a disease associated with rural regions of third world countries, the Avian Flu is threatening to infect much larger population centers and become an epidemic for which there is no cure. While this disease has gained much publicity, illnesses associated with birds have been around for some time.
There are more than 60 diseases and parasites associated with birds and they affect millions of people every day.
Transferred predominantly through bird droppings, the people who are most at risk are tenants of high-rise commercial and residential buildings. This known as the Sick Building Syndrome
The Sick Building Syndrome is caused by Bird droppings accumulating in or near the HVAC systems and the system then spreads the disease causing organisms commonly found in the bird fecal matter to building occupants.
In many instances, the Sick Building Syndrome causes occupants to suffer from eye infections, burning eyes, respiratory distress, and headaches. More than sixty diseases are associated with bird droppings.
The worst culprits for spreading diseases are the pigeons, Starlings and English Sparrows--otherwise known as pest birds. However, the spread of these diseases can be controlled by simply creating an inhospitable environment for the birds to nest or land.
There are methods available that are extremely effective and safe for both birds and humans.
One such method is the electric track system, which gives a minor shock to any bird landing on a building. This method is 100-percent effective and it can significantly reduce the risk of a potentially fatal disease being contracted by an occupant of the building.
All bird droppings need to be treated as hazardous waste. In fact, bird droppings have been known to eat through paint, aluminum siding and even metal.
Special bio-suits and filter masks need to be worn by those charged with the removal of bird waste.
If there is any positive that can be associated with the Avian Flu is that it will hopefully bring attention to these potentially fatal diseases and cause building owners and managers to act responsibly by quickly ridding their buildings of birds and their waste.
Otherwise, the potential for a serious public health threat is a very real possibility.
PHIL WALDORF
PRESIDENT,
BELL ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
COPYRIGHT 2004 Hagedorn Publication
COPYRIGHT 2004 Gale Group
