Serological Evidence of Human Infection with Coxiella burnetii after Occupational Exposure to Aborting Cattle

Summary

This serological survey formally establishes Coxiella burnetii-infected cattle as a source of occupational Q fever in farm and laboratory workers handling bovine aborted material. Through indirect fluorescent antibody testing of 27 workers, the study identified four serological profiles that enabled temporal inference of recent versus historical exposures, directly linking human infections to the documented window of bovine abortions. The findings complement existing literature dominated by small ruminant-related Q fever outbreaks and highlight a previously underappreciated occupational health hazard in cattle-handling environments.

UK applicability

Q fever remains a notifiable disease in the United Kingdom and cattle abortion exposure poses an occupational risk to UK farm workers and veterinary diagnostic personnel. The serological methodology and exposure-timing framework presented may inform surveillance protocols and occupational health guidance for cattle handlers in British farming and veterinary practice.

Key measures

Anti-phase II C. burnetii IgG and IgM titres measured by indirect fluorescent antibody test; serological profile classification based on relative IgG and IgM levels; temporal inference of exposure timing

Outcomes reported

The study measured anti-phase II Coxiella burnetii IgG and IgM antibodies in 27 farm and veterinary diagnostic laboratory workers using indirect fluorescent antibody tests to determine serological evidence of infection linked to occupational exposure to aborting cattle. Four distinct serological profiles were identified, with profiles 1 and 2 indicating recent C. burnetii exposure during the window of bovine abortion exposure.

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