Chlamydia psittacosis was first described in humans, in 1879, after seven people were exposed to tropical birds and developed pneumonia. Outbreaks occurred in 1879, in Germany, and in 1890 in Paris, caused by contact with sick exotic birds, and led to mortality in one-third of victims. In 1917, an outbreak occurred in Brazil, which led to the discovery of psittacosis in parrots, and exotic birds shipped around the world spread the disease. In 1917, an outbreak in Philadelphia was caused by birds stored in the basement of a department store. In 1929, an outbreak in Annapolis, Maryland, started with pet parrots, and spread to twelve countries.

Chlamydia psittacosis has been referred to as avian chlamydia, because It originated in birds, and birds are the primary reservoir. In animals, it has been called avian chlamydiosis and/or orinthosis. Acute Chlamydia psittacosis in humans can lead to severe pneumonia and death; and chronic chlamydia psittacosis can cause a variety of chronic diseases. Ownership of pet birds is considered a public health concern, due to the risk of transmission of psittacosis.