In the northern German town of Lüneburg, the rare Q fever has been detected in several people. This is a pathogen that can be transmitted from animals to humans – due to climate change, the disease is now also becoming more common in more northern regions.
“Some are knowingly sick, others may not have any symptoms,” district spokeswoman Marion Junker said Monday. “It’s a disease that’s emerging from the south as part of climate change.” So far, nearly a dozen infections have been recorded in Amt Neuhaus, but the disease is so rare that many doctors don’t even recognize it, it said.
Contamination via droplets or dust possible
Q fever is a bacterial infectious disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. Transmission to humans mainly occurs through contact with infected animals such as cattle, sheep and goats, or through consumption of raw or undercooked meat from infected animals. It is also transmitted through dogs, cats or ticks. However, people can also become infected if they inhale droplets or dust containing bacteria.
Typical symptoms of varying severity
Symptoms of Q fever can vary widely, from mild flu-like symptoms to severe cases of pneumonia or liver and kidney problems. Most people fully recover within two to three weeks, but some may have symptoms for months. Those affected then suffer from chronic fatigue, for example.
Early diagnosis and antibiotic treatment are important to prevent serious complications. Preventive measures, such as using protective clothing and following hygiene rules when handling infected animals, can also help reduce the risk of infection.
Source: Krone
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