Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 2, 2026

Vector Competence Analyses on Aedes aegypti Mosquitoes using Zika Virus
Published on: May 31, 2020
Q fever risk across a dynamic, heterogeneous landscape in Laikipia County, Kenya
Walker DePuy1, Valerie Benka, Aimee Massey
1Anthropology Department, University of Georgia, Athens, GA, USA.
Abstract:
Two hundred fourteen serosamples were collected from four livestock species across five ranches in Laikipia County, Kenya. Serological analysis for Coxiella burnetii (the causative agent for Q fever) showed a distinct seroprevalence gradient: the lowest in cattle, higher in sheep and goats, and the highest in camels. Laikipia-wide aerial counts show a recent increase in the camel population. One hundred fifty-five stakeholder interviews revealed concern among veterinary, medical, ranching, and conservation professionals about Q fever. Local pastoralists and persons employed as livestock keepers, in contrast, revealed no knowledge of the disease. This work raises questions about emerging Q fever risk in Laikipia County and offers a framework for further integrative disease research in East African mixed-use systems.
Related Concept Videos
Investigation of Disease Outbreaks
Infectious Diseases and Their Occurrence
Introduction to Epidemiology
Principles of Disease Surveillance
Causality in Epidemiology
Bias in Epidemiological Studies

