Abstract

Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. It is an occupational risk for employees of animal industriesand is associated with contact with wildlifeand domestic animals. AlthoughQ fever infection may be asymptomatic, chronic sequelae such as endocarditis occur in 5% of symptomatic individuals. Disease outcomes may be predicted through measurement of immune correlates. Vaccination is the most efficient method to prevent Q fever. Currently, Q-VAX is the only licenced human vaccine. Q-VAX is highly effective; however, individuals previously exposed to C. burnetii are at risk of adverse reactions. This review examines the immunological responses of acute and chronic Q fever and the efforts to provide a safer and cost-effective Q fever vaccine.

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