Q-Fever numbers on the rise in humans What does that mean for goat operations? With the number of Q-fever cases on the rise in humans, it is important for owners of ruminant animals to be on the lookout for signs and symptoms.
There are a few diseases that can wipe out a kid crop before it even hits the ground. Q-Fever is one of those. Caused by a bacteria, Q-Fever is found in domesticated and wild animals throughout the United States (and the world). Q-Fever is important because it is a zoonotic disease, meaning that it can be spread from animals to people.
Q fever in animals
Farmers should inform their workers/staff about the possible risks and precautions while working with livestock. • Wash hands thoroughly several times a day (especially if grossly contaminated) and always before eating, smoking and after finishing work for the day • Wash skin wounds immediately with soap and running water and cover with a waterproof dressing • Treat potentially infected animal tissues, such as afterbirths and aborted lambs, with care and respect. Handle with waterproof gloves • Use additional personal protective equipment (includ-
Signs of disease are very uncommon but abortions (including large outbreaks) may occur in cattle, sheep and goats. The Q fever agent is unusual because it survives in Boer Goat 2018_Layout 1 the environment for many months as an infectious sporelike form which is resistant to heat, drying and disinfection.
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Q fever in people
(since 1982)
Infection usually results from inhaling the resistant spore form on dust particles contaminated with animal birth products (such as afterbirths), dung or urine; animal hides, wool or fur are other potential sources. Very occasionally, outbreaks occur in urban areas, probably caused by wind-borne bacteria spread from nearby livestock premises. Infection can also be acquired via contact with infected materials through skin abrasions, or, very rarely, from unpasteurized milk and tick bites.
Avoiding human infection on farms
Working with animals inevitably involves close contact with contaminated material so good personal hygiene is very important. Relevant regulations require farmers to adopt appropriate measures to minimize exposure.
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