Protect Yourself: Q Fever Vaccination Now Available

/ Medsana News / By

We are pleased to offer Q fever vaccination services at Medsana Medical Clinic as Dr Alex Ling is a registered Q Fever service provider.

What is Q Fever?

Q fever is an illness caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. Surprisingly, the animals carrying this bacteria, like cattle, sheep, goats, and even kangaroos, usually show no signs of being sick. This sneaky bacterium can pass to humans when they inhale dust or droplets contaminated by the infected animals’ fluids, faeces, or urine. The bacteria not only dwell in animals but can also persist in our environment – in the dust and soil.

For many, the infection might pass unnoticed. However, for others, it mimics a severe flu, presenting with fever, chills, headaches, muscle pain, and even conditions like pneumonia and hepatitis. It’s essential to consult a doctor if you exhibit such symptoms, especially if you work closely with animals.

Who is at Risk?

Certain occupations and environments expose individuals to a higher risk of contracting Q Fever. Some of these high-risk groups include:

  • Abattoir, meat, and pet food workers
  • Livestock farmers, dairy workers, and shearers
  • Vets, veterinary nurses and other staff
  • Veterinary and agriculture students
  • Animal trainers and breeders
  • Laboratory personnel handling certain specimens
  • People living near livestock farms, transport routes or areas frequented by livestock or native animals, such as kangaroos.

Do you fit into any of these categories? If yes, read on.

Q Fever Vaccination: Your Shield Against the Disease

Good news! There’s a vaccine available to guard you against Q Fever. We strongly recommend this vaccine for anyone working in or considering entering a high-risk profession. Even if your exposure is non-occupational, like living near a livestock farm or frequently visiting such environments, you are encouraged to get vaccinated.

First, you will need to be screened with a skin test and a blood test to ensure the vaccine is suitable for you. If suitable, you will book in for a second consultation one week later to receive your vaccination. 

Your health is our utmost priority. If you are going to be exposed to Q fever, please book for your screening online with Dr Alex Ling or call reception on (07) 3852 4878. 

References:

Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care: Q Fever

Queensland Government: Q Fever

Timely PCR Swab Service

Available between 8:30am – 9am

 

  1. Short Telephone Consult with the patient – bulk billed if Medicare eligible. Private fees with no Medicare rebates apply if the patient has not seen us in the last 12 months.
  2. The doctor will request a respiratory panel for viruses and bacteria (where clinically appropriate).  For example, Influenza, Covid, RSV, mycoplasma, pertussis and so forth.  Not all possible infections are on this panel.  The doctor may decline the request if it is not appropriate and direct the patient accordingly.
  3. Normal fees will apply if more than swabbing is requested.  Clinical examination and other requests requires a normal consultation at another time.
  4. Patient arrives at the car park next to Building 10 before 11am.  Or takes the pathology request to another 4Cyte collection centre.
  5. Patient calls reception to notify of their arrival so the 4Cyte Pathology Collector can gown up and go the patient’s car to swab the patient.
  6. PCR swab gets sent to 4Cyte.  The processing times varies according to workflows.
  7. 4Cyte will SMS the patient with the Covid results.  Positive PCR test results for other respiratory viruses or bacteria are not named.  A negative PCR result doesn’t mean the patient is infection free.  These swabs narrow down the possibilities and guide appropriate treatments.
  8. An appropriate appointment needs to be made for results in person, via video or via phone.  Normal fees applies for these consult.  Normal fees applies if the doctor calls the patient for further clinical advice and management.  
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