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Sheep-associated outbreak of Q fever, Idaho
Abstract:
Between Feb 1 and Aug 31, 1984, an outbreak of 18 symptomatic cases of Q fever occurred in Idaho; these numbers represent an increase over the three cases reported in 1982 and the five reported in 1983. Four of the patients in the outbreak required hospitalization for two to five weeks; there were no fatalities. Eight of the cases had documented Q fever hepatitis, and one had pneumonia. All 18 of the 1984 cases for whom information was available were epidemiologically linked to visiting or working at a sheep research station and/or being exposed to animals from this research station. In this outbreak, patients typically had a hepatitislike illness associated with fever and severe headache. Severity of illness ranged from asymptomatic to life threatening. Cases of pneumonia and hepatitis due to Q fever continue to occur in the United States, especially among persons exposed to livestock.
Insights
An Idaho Q fever outbreak in 1984 saw 18 cases, primarily linked to a sheep research station. Most patients experienced hepatitis-like illness, highlighting risks for those exposed to livestock.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii.
- Cases of Q fever, particularly hepatitis and pneumonia, occur in the United States.
- An increase in Q fever cases was observed in Idaho in 1984 compared to previous years.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe an outbreak of Q fever in Idaho during 1984.
- To identify the source and epidemiological links of the Q fever cases.
- To characterize the clinical presentation and severity of the outbreak-associated Q fever.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case analysis of symptomatic Q fever cases.
- Epidemiological investigation to determine exposure sources.
- Clinical data review for diagnosis and outcomes.
Main Results:
- Eighteen symptomatic Q fever cases were identified between February and August 1984.
- Four patients required hospitalization for 2-5 weeks; no fatalities occurred.
- Eight cases presented with Q fever hepatitis, and one with pneumonia.
- All cases were linked to a sheep research station and/or animal exposure.
- Typical symptoms included fever, severe headache, and hepatitis-like illness.
Conclusions:
- The 1984 Idaho outbreak underscores the risk of Q fever transmission from livestock.
- Exposure at sheep research stations is a significant risk factor for Q fever.
- Clinical manifestations include hepatitis and pneumonia, with variable severity.