Goat-Associated Q Fever Outbreak in Newfoundland
Author Information
Author(s): Todd F. Hatchette, Robert C. Hudson, Walter F. Schlech, Nancy A. Campbell, Jill E. Hatchette, Sam Ratnam, Didier Raoult, Catherine Donovan, Thomas J. Marrie
Primary Institution: Dalhousie University
Hypothesis
What are the extent and risk factors of a Q fever outbreak associated with goat farms in Newfoundland?
Conclusion
The outbreak revealed significant seroprevalence of Q fever among goat workers, with contact with goat placenta being a major risk factor.
Supporting Evidence
- Thirty-seven percent of the outbreak cohort had antibody titers to phase II Coxiella burnetii antigen >1:64, suggesting recent infection.
- The predominant clinical manifestation of Q fever was an acute febrile illness.
- Independent risk factors for infection included contact with goat placenta, smoking tobacco, and eating cheese made from pasteurized goat milk.
- Seroprevalence in blood donors was significantly lower than that of the control and outbreak cohorts.
Takeaway
Some farmers and workers got sick after being around goats, and many had a type of germ called Coxiella burnetii that can make people ill.
Methodology
Participants were interviewed and serum samples were collected to test for antibodies to Coxiella burnetii.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported symptoms and exposure history.
Limitations
The study relied on self-reported data and may not capture all cases of infection.
Participant Demographics
Participants included farmers, workers, and their contacts, with a mix of genders and ages.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.001
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website