We identified Encephalitozoon cuniculi genotype II parasites as a cause of extraintestinal microsporidiosis in 2 owners of birds also infected with E. cuniculi. Patients experienced long-lasting nonspecific symptoms; the disease course was more progressive in a patient with diabetes. Our findings suggest direct bird-to-human transmission of this pathogen.
Keywords: Czech Republic; Encephalitozoon cuniculi; Poland; exotic birds; immunocompetent; microsporidiosis; parasites; zoonoses.