How Do You Prevent Q Fever (Coxiella Burnetii Infection)?
• Know if you are at risk. If you spend a significant amount of time around cattle, sheep, or goats you are at risk of contacting Q fever. The bacteria Coxiella burnetii is excreted in the milk, urine, and feces of infected animals. The bacteria are also expelled in high numbers in the amniotic fluids and the placenta of birthing animals. Know how to prevent the infection. The following steps will help prevent Q fever: • Deal with the disposal of placenta, birth products, fetal membranes, and aborted fetuses in an appropriate manner. Always wear gloves and face masks when dealing with animals giving birth. • Limit or restrict access to barns and facilities where potentially infected animals are housed. Insure that all personnel wear appropriate safety equipment. • Maintain strict and proper procedures for bagging, sterilizing, and washing of clothing. • Vaccinate all persons engaged in research with pregnant sheep or live Coxiella burnetii, when possible. • Safeguard that all imported
