NSW Health has launched a campaign for health professionals to promote the Q fever vaccination. ACRRM’s module, ‘Q Fever - Early Diagnosis and Vaccination’, is available now on ACRRM Online Learning and is free for all College members.

Q fever is a serious illness which often appears like a severe flu, with high fevers and chills, sweating, severe headaches, muscle and joint pains and extreme fatigue. Chronic lethargy can remain for months after treatment. In severe cases, Q fever can cause hepatitis or pneumonia. 

The Q fever vaccine (Q-VAX®) is the best way to prevent infection. Vaccination is highly recommended for people who work or intend to work in high-risk occupations. Vaccination is also recommended for everyone aged 15 years and over who has the potential to be exposed to Q fever at home or locations they plan to visit.

People should also take the following steps to protect against Q fever:

• washing hands and arms thoroughly in soapy water after any contact with animals
• wearing a properly fitting P2 mask when handling or disposing of animal products or when mowing or gardening in areas with livestock or native animal droppings
• wearing protective clothing and thick gloves when working with high-risk animals or animal products
• removing and washing dirty clothing, coveralls, boots and equipment in outdoor wash areas to prevent exposing other household residents
• washing animal urine, faeces, blood and other body fluids from equipment and surfaces and properly disposing of animal tissues including birth by-products.

For more information on Q fever and resources for GPs, go to the NSW Health website. 

To enrol in ACRRM’s online Q fever module, click here.