Acute Q fever in Majorca island 2017-2022. An underestimated problem

Area of Science:

• Infectious Diseases
• Epidemiology
• Zoonotic Infections

Background:

• Q fever (QF) is a zoonotic infection caused by Coxiella burnetii.
• Previous studies suggest a potentially high incidence of QF in Majorca.
• This study aimed to characterize acute Q fever (AQF) in Majorca from 2017-2022.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the epidemiological characteristics of AQF in Majorca.
• To describe the clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic features of AQF cases.
• To assess the burden of AQF on the island.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of AQF cases diagnosed in Majorca's hospitals (2017-2022).
• Inclusion criteria based on clinical presentation and specific serological criteria for confirmed, very probable, and probable AQF.
• Utilized serological markers including IgG seroconversion, IgG titers, and IgM positivity.

Main Results:

• 223 AQF cases were diagnosed: 102 confirmed, 84 very probable, 37 probable.
• Most frequent clinical presentations included prolonged febrile syndrome (48.0%) and pneumonia (21.9%).
• AQF resulted in 1.8% mortality, with endocarditis developing in three patients.

Conclusions:

• Acute Q fever is a significant, under-recognized zoonotic disease in Majorca.
• The findings underscore the substantial morbidity and mortality associated with AQF.
• AQF is a preventable condition requiring greater awareness and diagnostic efforts.