Carepoint Q Fever program participants receive:

• Entry on the Australian Q Fever Register
• Wallet size identification card with their medical immunity status
• Frequently asked questions on Q Fever

Q Fever is a disease that can be spread to humans mainly from cattle, sheep and goats. The bacteria is spread through the urine, faeces and milk, but birth fluids, the foetus and the placenta are the most dangerous sources. People can become infected by being splashed with infected fluids, or by breathing in infected dust as when infected fluids dry out, the bacteria can remain alive in the dust for years.

When exposed to the Q Fever bacteria some people experience no signs, while others just feel a little 'off colour' for a few days. However, most people feel like they have a bad case of the 'flu, with fever and sweating, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea for 7 to 10 days. Generally, these signs pass and the exposed person will develop immunity to Q Fever for the rest of their lives. However, if the exposed person already has heart problems, they may get infection of the heart valves and severe illness as a result.

It is very rare for anybody to die of Q Fever, although some people may get other problems for months or years after the first signs of disease have passed, commonly called Post Q Fever Fatigue Syndrome. Symptoms may include:

• Extreme tiredness
• Weakness, even after minor exercise
• Muscle pains
• Headaches
• Fever
• Depression

This form of the disease may last for years, and can make many aspects of normal life, including work, impossible.

While the early disease can be very unpleasant, preventing this long lasting disease is the main aim of the Carepoint Q Fever vaccination program.

Call Carepoint to book on 1300 244 792 or email info@carepoint.com.au