6-29 IAN Q Again

 The other day we discovered in Idaho that a case of Q fever had been detected. However, according to Dr. Scott Leibsle of The Idaho State Department of Agriculture (ISDA) Division of Animal Industries, the goat herd under question had not actually contracted the disease and had not tested positive.  Well now KTVB TV has reported that The Idaho State Department of Agriculture says two Idaho goats have  actually tested positive for Q fever which, according to Dr. Leibsle is a very contagious bacteria with a big-name. “Coxiela burnetii is the organism that causes Q fever.” Because this disease is so contagious, it is normal procedure to test animal by-products such as milk for the bacteria. One of the primary effects on livestock is that often times pregnancies are aborted by the presence of Coxiela burnetii in the animal. Even though aborted fetuses are common to both Q fever and brucellosis, they are distinctly different pathogens. Leibsle assured me as well as the KTVB reporter that most folks aren't at risk of catching Q fever.  Last year, KTVB reported that a rancher and basketball coach in Dietrich caught Q fever from one of his calves.  He can't walk, or use his left arm or leg.