DOH says ongoing study to determine risk of Q fever to humans

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MANILA, Philippines – A study on whether Query fever, or Q fever, poses a risk to humans is ongoing, the Department of Health (DOH) said on Friday.

The Department of Agriculture – Bureau of Animal Industry confirmed on Friday that there were cases of Q fever in goats imported from the United States.

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“Alongside the confirmation by the Department of Agriculture (DA) of Q Fever bacteria Coxiella burnetti being found in imported goats, the Department of Health assures the public that a thorough assessment of risks to human health status is underway,” the DOH said in a statement.

The DOH said that Q fever, caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetti, can be transmitted from animals to humans, but human-to-human transmission is rare.

“Q fever can be cured by antibiotics that are widely available in the Philippines,” the DOH added.

Some of its symptoms in humans include fever, fatigue, headache, cough, nausea, and vomiting, which develop within two to three weeks after exposure.

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The DOH, likewise, advised the public to avoid animals suspected of having Q fever and to consult their nearest hospital or clinic if an exposure is suspected.