Surge in Bird Fancier’s Lung Cases Linked to Pigeon Exposure in Karachi
News Desk
Islamabad: A rare but serious lung disease linked to pigeon exposure is increasingly affecting residents of Karachi, with weekly cases of Bird Fancier’s Lung (BFL) now ranging between 15 and 25, a sharp rise from just one or two cases per week a decade ago.
BFL, a type of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis (HP), is particularly impacting women and the elderly. The disease is caused by the inhalation of microscopic particles—1 to 3 microns in size—found in pigeon feathers and dried droppings. These particles often enter homes through open windows or poorly maintained air conditioners, settling deep in the lungs and triggering allergic reactions.
The disease typically starts with mild symptoms, such as persistent cough, fatigue, wheezing, and shortness of breath. If left untreated, however, BFL can progress to irreversible lung scarring, known as Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD). In severe cases, patients may require oxygen therapy or even a lung transplant.
Karachi’s growing pigeon culture is under scrutiny as the number of feeding spots across the city has surged, increasing the risk of exposure for both bird keepers and nearby residents. As pigeons fly around feeding areas, they release allergens into the air, which can travel far beyond the immediate vicinity. While these public feeding areas are a cultural norm, their health implications are gaining attention. Many affected individuals are unaware of the risks, especially when exposure occurs inside homes or other enclosed spaces.
Although BFL can be treated in its early stages, Pakistan lacks lung transplant facilities, forcing patients with advanced conditions to seek medical care abroad—often in India, China, or the UAE—placing additional strain on families.
Health experts emphasize prevention as the key to combating the disease. Simple precautions, such as wearing masks and gloves when handling birds, avoiding dry sweeping of cages, and installing filters or servicing air conditioning systems, can significantly reduce the risk.
Hospitals in Karachi report a growing number of patients with respiratory issues, but there is no formal classification system for BFL, making it difficult to track and report cases accurately. This lack of structured data hinders efforts to understand the full extent of the problem.
Countries like Australia and Switzerland have implemented strong measures to address BFL, including banning pigeon feeding in urban areas due to public health concerns. Similarly, Makkah dismantled its popular pigeon feeding site near the Holy Kaaba during past outbreaks of COVID-19 and MERS to prevent airborne disease spread.
Public health advocates are urging the government and local authorities to take immediate action. Proposed measures include launching public awareness campaigns, regulating or limiting urban bird-feeding sites, and incorporating BFL into national health registries to improve tracking and treatment.
