Q-Fever on the Rise in 2 Western States

Livestock disease infects at least 11 in Washington and Montana

Q-fever is a little-know, under-reported disease that sheep, goats, and cattle carry and transmit to humans.   Listed as a potential bio-terrorism agent, recreationists – especially those with immunity issues, children and pregnant women – should take proper precautions to avoid domestic sheep on public lands this summer (and at all times).

Livestock disease outbreak in humans probed in 2 statesReuters

Q fever, which is treated with antibiotics, can pose a severe risk to people with heart-valve defects or compromised immune systems. It also can cause pregnant women to miscarry, health experts said.

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