Q fever is a highly contagious zoonotic disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii, which infects cattle, goats, and sheep. It is found in an infected animal’s bodily fluids and excretions, such as placental tissues, amniotic fluid, urine, feces and milk. The main signs of infection in animals include abortion, infertility, fever, lethargy and loss of appetite.
C. burnetii can spread to humans by inhalation from contaminated dust particles in a dusty environment or it can be spread through exposure to birthing fluids, feces, urine or even wool from an infected animal, according to Terry Hensley, TVMDL. In the U.S., more than one-third of cases are reported from California, Texas and Iowa <Link>.
Source: BEEF Bulletin, April 1, 2025. Link.
It is essential to follow strict biosecurity and personal hygiene measures.” — Terry Hensley
Related: Dogs and cats are potential sources of infection for diseases such as Q fever, caused by Coxiella burnetii, a multiple-host pathogen. Q fever outbreaks in dogs and cats have been related with parturition and abortion events, and ticks have a potential role in the transmission of this pathogen <Link>.
Image: Link.
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