High Q Fever Cases This Spring

THERE have been 20 recorded cases of Q fever in the Local Health District so far during Spring and the Hunter New England Local Health District (HNELHD) are strongly urging livestock workers to get vaccinated.

Related Story: New Q Fever Vaccine Underway

Query fever (Q fever) is a bacterial infection carried by animals and people may become infected when they breathe in contaminated dust particles or by being in close contact with infected livestock or certain native animals.

HNELHD records approximately 50 cases per year, with many more cases remaining undiagnosed.

Doctor Peter Massey from Population Health said a single dose vaccine is recommended for people who work in high-risk occupations, as well as for people aged 15 years and over who could be exposed to Q fever.

“The risk of ongoing health issues, such as heart disease and chronic fatigue, can really hit individuals and families hard,” Dr Massey said.

“With all the pressure on farmers and livestock handlers with the drought and now COVID-19, the last thing we want is for them to be needlessly drained of energy for months on end after being struck down by Q fever,” he said.

The vaccine is not recommended for children aged below 15 years however, children who help with farm animals may also be at risk.

Dr Massey urged anyone who might be at risk to consult a GP who can screen for Q fever and vaccinate them, if needed.

“We want people to proactively talk to their doctor about Q fever,” Dr Massey said.

“Really good hand washing, using protective masks, protective clothing and removing clothes worn for chores outside before entering the family home are behaviours to be reinforced, because they can protect those who cannot be vaccinated,” he said.

Q fever can lead to high fevers and chills, sweating, severe headaches, muscle and joint pains and extreme fatigue, which can then lead to chronic lethargy that lasts several months.

The New South Wales Government is investing around $1 million between 2018 and 2022 to help protect farmers and other people in rural areas who work with animals from Q fever and NSW Health is currently delivering an education campaign targeting people in occupations and locations at higher risk of Q fever.

For more information on Q fever, go to the NSW Health website.