Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
183 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

Could I Have Contracted An Infection From A Cut Sustained While Cleaning A Bird S Nest From A Dryer Vent?

I was cleaning out a new bird nest from the exhaust pipe coming from our dryer earlier today and I noticed more further inside. So, I reached in and pulled the rest out and cut my arm. I had to go in and out a couple times and didn t notice until afterwards. The vent always has steam coming out of it, so it s a breeding ground already; not to mention any illnesses/pathogens the birds may have had. So, I m worried I may have contracted something from any urine/feces/saliva/etc. inside the nest/pipe. Should I talk to a Primary care/go to the ER? I know its often a The sooner you catch it, the better type of thing. I didn t think about it until just now. It swelled up pretty bad at first, and is still raised; which is odd for a normal cut/scrape on me. I m pretty sure I m up to date on my tetanus shot, so I m not overly concerned about that aspect of it.
posted on Tue, 1 Aug 2023
Twitter Fri, 1 Aug 2025 Answered on
Twitter Mon, 1 Sep 2025 Last reviewed on
Report Abuse
General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,

Bird nests and dryer exhaust pipes can harbor a mix of bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can infect you. Gently wash with soap and water; apply an antiseptic and keep it covered. If the swelling increases, or if you feel unwell, don’t hesitate to seek immediate care. Visit ER urgently, you may need medical help.

A raised cut could be your immune system reacting or it could be the start of an infection. Get clinically examined and evaluated in the ER, get the wound cleaned and antiseptic dressing done. You may need a course of antibiotics and analgesics for better and faster healing.

Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician
I find this answer helpful
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 
Loading Online Doctors....
Could I Have Contracted An Infection From A Cut Sustained While Cleaning A Bird S Nest From A Dryer Vent?

Hello, Bird nests and dryer exhaust pipes can harbor a mix of bacteria, fungi, and parasites that can infect you. Gently wash with soap and water; apply an antiseptic and keep it covered. If the swelling increases, or if you feel unwell, don’t hesitate to seek immediate care. Visit ER urgently, you may need medical help. A raised cut could be your immune system reacting or it could be the start of an infection. Get clinically examined and evaluated in the ER, get the wound cleaned and antiseptic dressing done. You may need a course of antibiotics and analgesics for better and faster healing. Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Nupur K., General & Family Physician