Q-fever is a rare but serious bacterial illness. The bacterium (Coxiella burnettii) is highly infectious and can live for long periods in harsh environmental conditions. It spreads from infected animals to humans via inhalation of infected particles in the air. Cattle, sheep and goats are the main source of human infection. Most infected animals do not get sick, but they shed the bacterium in their urine, faeces, milk, wool and birth products which can subsequently contaminate the environment.

Acute Q fever infection appears 2 – 4 weeks after infection and symptoms may last up to 3 – 6 weeks. Chronic Q fever is serious and long-lasting disease occurring in up to 5% of acute Q-fever patients. It is caused by persistent infection in some body parts such as the heart valves, bones, liver etc. It may develop months or even years after the initial infection.
Q fever illness often results in total incapacity necessitating extensive time off work.

Most people recover fully and develop lifelong immunity to subsequent Q fever infection. Occasionally, people develop chronic Q fever infection lasting for several years with a range of health issues including heart problems. These complications are more common in pregnant women, people with weakened immune systems or existing heart conditions. About 10% of patients sick with acute Q fever subsequently develop chronic fatigue which can be very serious for years. Early treatment with antibiotics can get you better sooner and reduce your risk of long-term complications. It is important to seek medical advice early if you think you may have contracted Q fever infection.

Several occupations in which workers are in direct contact or close proximity to infected animals, their products and contaminated materials are considered high risk transmission environments. Examples of such occupations are farmers, shearers, veterinarians, abattoir workers, animal transporters, stockyard workers and council workers.

Those who are 15 years and older and work in high-risk occupations as above or live in a high-risk environment should be vaccinated against Q fever after undergoing pre-vaccination screening to exclude past infection. Allow 15 days after vaccination before starting work in high-risk environment. Those who should not be vaccinated against Q fever are pregnant women, children younger than 15 years and those with confirmed past infection with Q fever.

For more information from NSW Health regarding Q fever, please click HERE