Q fever is one of several diseases that are transmissible from animals to humans.
Such diseases are known as zoonotic diseases and in cases of Q fever is caused by a microorganism known as Coxiella burnetii.
Cattle, sheep and goats are the most common sources of infection in humans.
Infection generally occurs through the inhalation of infected material.
Placental material or after-birth is a particularly significant source of infection. Hence, strict hygienic practices should be followed around calving, lambing or kidding.
People may also become infected by being in contact with infected animals and their waste products, and occasionally through the ingestion of unpasteurised milk.
Therefore, people who are in regular contact with livestock such as abattoir workers, farmers, veterinarians and other people involved with handling livestock are at most risk of contracting Q fever.
The most common clinical signs of Q fever include headaches, fever and muscle pain.
This could be easily misdiagnosed as influenza. Therefore, if you are from a high-risk group and you are exhibiting flu-like symptoms it is worth discussing the possibility of Q fever with your GP.
Q fever is usually treatable with the use of an appropriate antibiotic.
On occasions, Q fever sufferers can go on to develop post Q fever fatigue syndrome. Q fever can therefore be quite a debilitating condition.
A vaccination is available to prevent Q fever. If you are in a high-risk group, prevention through vaccination should be seriously considered.
Similarly, if you employ staff, vaccination for Q fever should be considered in your OH&S procedures.
For further information about human aspects of the disease, contact your medical practitioner, and for veterinary aspects contact your veterinarian or Agriculture Victoria animal health or extension staff, or in NSW your Local Land Services.
Dr Jeff Cave is an Agriculture Victoria senior veterinary officer.
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