Aspergillosis

Aspect	Details
Cause	Fungal infection by Aspergillus genus (esp. A. fumigatus)
Transmission	Inhalation of airborne spores; not contagious (human-to-human)
Primary Source	Soil, decaying vegetation, bird droppings (esp. pigeons), AC systems
At-Risk Groups	Immunocompromised individuals, chronic lung disease patients
Treatment	Antifungals (Voriconazole, Itraconazole)

Link to Blue Rock Pigeons (Columba livia)

• Controversy: Pigeon droppings harbor Aspergillus spores → accumulate in nests/roosts.
• Risk Amplifiers:
  • Urban density: Pigeons thrive in cities (temples, buildings).
  • Dried droppings: Spores become airborne when disturbed.
• Reality Check:
  • Pigeons are carriers, not direct transmitters to humans.
  • Actual infection requires prolonged spore exposure + host susceptibility.

Types of Aspergillosis

1. Allergic Bronchopulmonary (ABPA): Asthma-like (wheezing, mucus plugs).
2. Chronic Pulmonary: Cavitary lung lesions in TB/COPD patients.
3. Invasive: Life-threatening; spreads to organs (immunocompromised).
4. Aspergilloma: Fungal ball in lung cavities.

Prevention & Control

• Public Health: Masks in dusty areas; AC maintenance; avoid pigeon feeding zones.
• Policy: Urban bird management; regulate feeding near heritage/hospital zones.
• Medical: Early screening for high-risk groups (e.g., post-chemotherapy).