Implement controls to prevent Q fever

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland have received several notifications of Q fever cases over the past 12 months, highlighting the ongoing risk to workers who have contact with animals or animal environments.

Q fever is a potentially serious infectious disease that can cause prolonged illness and significant time away from work. Understanding the risks and implementing appropriate controls can help protect workers and prevent infection.

Workers such as farmers, stock handlers, shearers, livestock transporters, abattoir workers and veterinarians may be at increased risk of exposure.

Q fever is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. Symptoms can include fever, chills, headaches, muscle and joint pain, sweating and extreme fatigue. In some cases, illness can be severe and recovery may take weeks or longer.

Cattle, sheep and goats are the most common sources of human infection, but other animals such as kangaroos, bandicoots, camels, dogs and cats can also cause infection.

People can become infected with Q fever by inhaling contaminated aerosols and dust arising from:

• animals, animal products and waste (milk, wool, hides, fur, urine, faeces and birth products)
• animal environments (soil, bedding, straw, hay and grass)
• other contaminated items (machinery, equipment, vehicles and clothing).

Businesses should assess the risk of Q fever in their workplace and implement appropriate control measures to minimise exposure.

More information

Read more information about Q fever including prevention and control measures.