Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

Which of the following is a dangerous animal-related health risk from birds?

1. Heart disease

2. Histoplasmosis

3. Diabetes

4. Asthma

The correct answer is: Histoplasmosis

Histoplasmosis is a fungal infection that is a significant health risk associated with exposure to bird droppings, particularly from pigeons and other birds. This disease is caused by inhaling spores of the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum, which can thrive in environments rich in bird droppings. When these droppings decompose, they release fungal spores into the air, which can then be inhaled, leading to respiratory issues and other health complications. The other choices, while they may be connected to various environmental or health conditions, do not specifically relate to risks posed by birds. Heart disease and diabetes are chronic health conditions primarily influenced by lifestyle factors, genetics, and diet, rather than direct exposure to birds. Asthma, although it can be exacerbated by various environmental factors including allergens, is not uniquely tied to birds as a primary source of risk. Therefore, histoplasmosis stands out as the relevant health risk associated with birds, due to the unique mechanisms by which exposure occurs and the specific pathogenic nature of the fungus involved.