Epizootiological investigation of a Q fever outbreak and implications for future control strategies
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Epidemic Intelligence Service, Parasitic Diseases BranchCDC, 1600 Clifton Rd, Atlanta, GA 30333
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Public Health and Safety Division, Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services, 1400 Broadway, Helena, MT 59601
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Abstract
Objective—To describe the epizootiological investigation of an outbreak of Q fever (Coxiella burnetii infection).
Design—Epidemiological study.
Animals—17 goat herds in Washington, Montana, and Oregon.
Procedures—In April 2011, an abortion storm at a commercial goat farm in Washington was determined to be caused by C burnetii. A joint epidemiological investigation by public health and veterinary professionals was subsequently performed to assess the extent of the outbreak by performing a trace-forward of goats sold from the index farm, to determine risk factors associated with infection, and to implement control measures. A herd management plan was developed to control the outbreak and reduce risk of human exposure. Quarantine and temporary holds preventing the sale or movement of goats allowed time for trace-forward investigation, education of farmers regarding disease risk, and testing to determine the scope of the outbreak.
Results—17 farms were affected; 21 human Q fever cases were identified. Bacterial shedding in feces, vaginal fluid, or milk was confirmed in 156 of 629 (25%) goats tested by PCR assay. Seroprevalence of antibodies against C burnetii in goats, determined by ELISA, was 12%. The risk for C burnetii infection in goats was highest among females, those on farms associated with human Q fever, and those on Washington farms. A protective effect was observed for goats at farms where the primary form of goat carcass disposal was burial.
Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—This outbreak illustrated the importance of a joint investigation for zoonotic pathogens and the need to expand and strengthen relationships between medical, public health, and veterinary partners. Heightened awareness and enhanced veterinary diagnostic capabilities for C burnetii are needed to identify and control outbreaks expediently.
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- PubMed Citation
- Article by Alicia D. Anderson
- Article by Tahnee J. Szymanski
- Article by Michelle P. Emery
- Article by Paul H. Kohrs
- Article by Adam C. Bjork
- Article by Nicola Marsden-Haug
- Article by Randall J. Nett
- Article by Dana M. Woodhall
- Article by Joshua S. Self
- Article by Kelly A. Fitzpatrick
- Article by Rachael A. Priestley
- Article by Gilbert J. Kersh
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