The Department of Health (DOH) has confirmed a partnership with the Department of Agriculture (DA) to tackle Q fever bacteria from imported goats. To protect public health, DOH is rolling out an assessment of risks to human health status. Q fever, attributed to the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, is a disease found in animals that can be transmitted to humans. This collaboration highlights the critical need for joint efforts in managing diseases that affect both humans and animals.
First Confirmed Case Found in the Philippines
The Department of Agriculture-Bureau of Animal Industry (DA-BAI) has confirmed the Philippines’ first cases of Q fever in goats imported from the United States. Q fever, a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals.
Initial tests using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were conducted after some pregnant goats showed Q fever symptoms, with positive results emerging on February 6. Some goats were subsequently transferred to Marinduque, where they underwent further testing. The test using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) returned positive on June 19, with a final confirmatory test yielding similar results on June 20.
Dr. Christian Daquigan, officer-in-charge of the BAI National Veterinary Quarantine Services Division, reported that 19 samples from the imported goats tested positive for Q fever. These goats, purchased for a dispersal programme for farmers, were immediately “depopulated in secluded farms” in Pampanga and Marinduque to safeguard animal and human health. In total, 94 imported goats were condemned to prevent any potential spread of the disease.
What is Q fever?
Q fever, caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, is a significant yet often overlooked zoonotic disease that affects both humans and animals. This infection predominantly originates from livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats. It commonly spreads to humans through inhalation of dust contaminated by animal birthing products, faeces, urine, and milk.
The symptoms of Q fever can vary widely. They range from mild flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle pain to more severe conditions like pneumonia and hepatitis. In some cases, individuals may develop chronic Q fever, which can lead to serious complications such as endocarditis and inflammation of the heart’s inner lining.
While Q fever is treatable with antibiotics, prevention is crucial. Measures include minimising exposure to high-risk environments, practising good hygiene when handling animals, and using appropriate protective gear. Individuals at higher risk, such as farmers, veterinarians, and laboratory workers, should be particularly vigilant.
Q fever control measures enacted by DA-BAI
“BAI is taking measures to contain the disease and prevent spread. Infected goats have been depopulated, and tracing of infected animals is ongoing,” Daquigan stated. He reassured the public that no outbreak had occurred. This is because the affected animals were confined to a single area, containing the spread of the infection.
DA Assistant Secretary Arnel de Mesa announced the formation of a fact-finding team to investigate the incident. He added that Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. will issue a temporary importation ban on goats from the US. This ban will only last until the source of the infection is fully traced. The goats arrived in the Philippines on January 11 and were brought to a quarantine facility in Pampanga for mandatory 30-day quarantine and testing.
The fact-finding team will also look into why some goats were moved to Marinduque despite earlier concerns in Pampanga.
Local Goats Safe as per DA-BAI
Dr Daquigan assured the public that the meat and milk from local goats remain safe for consumption. However, they must be properly cooked and pasteurised, respectively. He highlighted the importance of close coordination with local government units and the Department of Health (DOH). A collaboration which would protect the wellbeing of both animals and humans, particularly farmers in the affected areas.
The DOH noted that human-to-human transmission of Q fever is rare. In humans, symptoms typically appear within two to three weeks after exposure and are generally mild. These include fever, fatigue, headache, cough, nausea, and vomiting. The DOH emphasised that Q fever is treatable with available antibiotics. They also advised the public to avoid contact with animals suspected of having the disease. If exposure is suspected, individuals should seek medical consultation promptly.
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