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RESEARCH ARTICLE

Q fever: pets, vets and validating tests

Jacqueline M Norris A C , Katrina L Bosward A and Jane Heller B
+ Author Affiliations
- Author Affiliations

A Faculty of Veterinary Science
The University of Sydney
NSW 2006, Australia

B School of Animal and Veterinary Sciences
Charles Sturt University
Locked Bag 588
Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia

C Tel: +61 2 9351 7095, Email: jacqui.norris@sydney.edu.au

Microbiology Australia 34(4) 186-188 https://doi.org/10.1071/MA13064
Published: 18 September 2013

Abstract

Q fever is a highly significant worldwide zoonosis caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. The bacterium’s extreme environmental resilience and large, seemingly asymptomatic animal and arthropod reservoir, provides an easy means to travel to new hosts. Vigilance in promptly recognising clinical cases in humans and reappraisal of the potential risks from animal exposure is required. This article outlines the current evidence on the potential role of cats and dogs in transmission and provides a framework for future studies.


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