The domestic pigeon (Columba livia) and its association with self-perceived respiratory and skin morbidity in a neighborhood of Bogotá

With their food and shelter seeking habits, pigeons are often found in places where humans are present. However, these shared spaces can host public health risks for the transmission of zoonoses. Therefore, we sought to explore the existing relationship between the presence of domestic pigeons (Columba livia) and self-perceived respiratory and skin morbidity in individuals in a neighborhood of Bogotá, Colombia. We conducted a cross-sectional neighborhood survey from February to May, 2014. Random and probabilistic sampling based on a list of dwellings was conducted. All of the dwellings in the neighborhood, as well as all the inhabitants at home during the survey, were included. A univariate and bivariate descriptive analysis was carried out, to establish statistical relationships based on use of the chi-square test and prevalence ratios. Also, a negative binomial regression model was used to determine the relationship between some pigeon exposures and the number of self-perceived symptoms. Respiratory and skin self-perceived symptoms were surveyed, along with the conditions in the dwellings and the presence of pigeons and their droppings. Altogether, 27.4% of those surveyed reported pigeon droppings within their dwellings or outside of them, and 33.1% stated they had experienced contact with pigeon droppings. The presence of sick pigeons around the houses was associated with self-reported headaches, rhinorrhoea and sneezing.

Similarly, droppings inside dwellings were associated with a range of self-reported symptoms, such as fever, dry cough and sneezing. The self-perception of respiratory and skin symptoms, and their association with the presence of pigeons may indicate that zoonotic transmission of pathogens has occurred in the respondents, despite the limitations of the study. Contact with domestic Columba livia pigeons or their droppings has previously been identified as a transmission route for zoonotic microorganisms.