Public Urged to Avoid Sick Pigeons Amid Health Advisory

The Animal Welfare Ministry has advised children to avoid sick pigeons and urged adults to take precautions when handling them. 

The advisory follows reports of dead and ill pigeons being found on the streets and in residential areas of Malé. Some birds have exhibited visible symptoms, including lesions in their mouths and on their bodies, while others have appeared too weak to fly.

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The ministry launched an investigation late last month to determine the cause of these cases. It has since identified the disease as infectious cholera, a respiratory illness caused by Avibacterium paragallinarum, a bacterium that affects birds.

The ministry’s analysis indicates that pigeons have been infected with multiple types of infections, some of which have resulted in severe illness and death. Symptoms include nasal discharge, coughing, breathing difficulties, facial swelling, and difficulty drinking. While the disease generally resolves on its own within a short period, the ministry has assured that it does not pose a significant risk to humans.

Adults have been advised to take protective measures when handling sick or dead pigeons, while children have been warned not to approach them.