Seroprevalence of Coxiella burnetii in cattle in the Belgrade epizootiological area
Q-fever is antropozoonosis which is caused by Coxiella burnetii, obligate intracellular pathogen. The most significant characteristics of this pathogen are resistance and stability in the environment, possibility of aerosol dissemination, and very low infective dose. C. burnetii can infect domestic...
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Published in | Biotechnology in animal husbandry Vol. 36; no. 3; pp. 359 - 369 |
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Main Authors | , , , , , , |
Format | Journal Article |
Language | English |
Published |
Institute for Animal Husbandry, Belgrade
2020
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Subjects | |
Online Access | Get full text |
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Summary: | Q-fever is antropozoonosis which is caused by Coxiella burnetii, obligate
intracellular pathogen. The most significant characteristics of this
pathogen are resistance and stability in the environment, possibility of
aerosol dissemination, and very low infective dose. C. burnetii can infect
domestic and wild animals, rodents, birds and ticks. Q fever in animals is
generally asymptomatic, although it can lead to reproductive disorders
during pregnancy. The main route of infection in humans is inhalation of
contaminated aerosol and dust. Serological studies have shown the presence
of antibodies to C. burnetii in the serum samples of cattle in Belgrade
epizootiological area. Seroprevalence of 18% was found in farm bred cattle,
while it was only 1.5% in individual breeding. In farm bred cows that have
suffered abortion prevalence was 49%, and only 1.9% in individual breeding.
The overall results indicate that the circulation of this pathogen in
cattle, in Belgrade epizootiological area, poses a health risk, not only to
the cattle, but also to the humans, especially persons working with animals.
Q fever control programs most often recommend serological research and
vaccination of animals. Accordingly, it is necessary to define a strategy
for the implementation of biosecurity measures and preventive measures
against Q fever. |
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ISSN: | 1450-9156 2217-7140 |
DOI: | 10.2298/BAH2003359Z |