SHAH ALAM: A significant accumulation of pigeon droppings that has been allowed to dry and neglected, particularly within buildings, poses a heightened risk of disease to humans, especially respiratory issues.
Associate Professor Ts Dr. Mohd Shukri Mohd Aris, head of Universiti Teknologi Mara's (UiTM) Risk Initiative Group (RIG), said that while fresh pigeon droppings typically carried a low risk of infection — unless the birds are already infected — dry droppings presented a much greater hazard.
He said that bird droppings could harbour four types of harmful parasites, including those causing histoplasmosis and cryptococcosis from fungal sources, as well as psittacosis and salmonellosis from harmful bacteria.
Explaining the distinction between wild and urban pigeons, he said: "Wild pigeons inhabit forests, but the real issue arises from urban pigeons, which breed uncontrollably and are often unmanaged."
The problem intensifies when pigeon colonies nest and defecate in enclosed spaces rather than open areas.
"The risk escalates with the number of birds; a greater population leads to a larger volume of unmanaged droppings in buildings," he said.
Additionally, Mohd Shukri warned that fungi and bacteria could generate dust that became airborne and inhaled.
"Scientific research shows that respiratory issues are more common than other symptoms, and since humans breathe continuously, the effects can be significant. Fungi release spores that can enter human respiratory tracts," he said.
Through his research and health risk assessments in industrial buildings, Mohd Shukri found that workers often reported symptoms such as coughing and colds, with some requiring hospital treatment.
"Workers mixing cement are at risk of respiratory issues without protective masks, and this danger increases when cleaning areas contaminated with droppings without proper protection," he said.
He stressed the need for strict standard operating procedures (SOPs) and effective management
strategies.
However, he clarified that while pigeons could not be deemed "completely dangerous to humans," their droppings pose risks regardless of the species involved.
"This issue isn't limited to Malaysia; countries like Singapore, Thailand, the US, and Canada face similar challenges," he added.
Mohd Shukri pointed out that Canada had implemented effective SOPs for managing these risks and urged Malaysia to adopt a more efficient public health management system for buildings and public spaces.
Meanwhile, bird enthusiast Muhammad Aidil Adha Che Johari, 39, acknowledges the health risks associated with bird droppings but is dedicated to maintaining a clean loft for his 50 pigeons.
"I understand the concerns about droppings carrying bacteria, but with proper care and management, I believe these risks can be mitigated," he said.
Muhammad Aidil Adha has faced inquiries regarding the potential dangers of pigeon droppings causing respiratory issues.
"I know dry droppings can be hazardous, but I am confident that with good loft management, we can prevent problems; proper care, cleanliness, and ventilation are essential."
He admitted that time constraints sometimes resulted in dried droppings, but he ensured they were not left for long.
"When cleaning the loft, I wear a mask to avoid exposure to potential dangers and unpleasant odours, and I shower thoroughly afterward."
He added that dust could become airborne when birds flap their wings, making masks crucial during cleaning.
Despite a decade of experience caring for pigeons, he has not encountered any health problems linked to his birds.
"If managed properly, there should be no issues, but pigeons nesting in public spaces or old buildings can cause problems with their droppings."