Cases of a highly infectious disease that is spread from animals to humans are surging in Victoria’s agriculture industry.
The Department of Health issues a warning on Wednesday about Q fever, a disease primarily spread from cattle, sheep and goats to people.
There were 77 reported cases of Q fever in 2024, a ‘significant increase’ compared to last five years.
Q fever is caused by infection with Coxiella burnetii bacteria with symptoms including severe ‘flu-like illness’ with fever, sweats, chills, headaches and joint pain.
The disease can cause long-term health complications, including heart disease, bone and joint infections and vascular infections.
Between 10 and 15 per cent of patients suffered chronic fatigue, know as Q fever fatigue syndrome.
However, other patients could suffer little to no symptoms.
While cases of the disease spreading from person to person are rare, it can be passed on by common domestic and wild animals including kangaroos, cows, camels, rodents, cats, dogs, birds and wallabies.
Q fever (pictured) is caused by infection with Coxiella burnetii bacteria with symptoms including severe ‘flu-like illness’ with fever, sweats, chills, headaches and joint pain
While cases of the disease spreading from person to person are rare, it can be passed on by common domestic and wild animals including kangaroos, cows, camels and rodents (stock)
People who work closely with animals are at the highest risk of exposure with Q fever which is commonly transmitted through the inhalation of dust or aerosols contaminated with infected bacteria from birth fluids, faeces, urine or blood.
The state’s health department urged agriculture, livestock and dairy farm workers to urgently get vaccinated against the disease.
‘People working in high-risk occupational groups are strongly recommended to be vaccinated against Q fever which provides a high level of protection,’ it said.
‘However, people who have previously had Q fever or have already received the Q fever vaccine should not be vaccinated due to the risk of adverse reactions.
‘It is necessary to be screened for previous exposure prior to vaccination.’
Q fever can also be treated with antibiotics.
People at a high risk of exposure can also reduce the risk of infection by washing their hands and arms thoroughly in soapy water after any contact with animals.
