Q Fever in Israel

18 Jul 2017

The Israeli Ministry of Health has reported an increase in cases of Q fever in 2017. Up to 24 June 2017 there have been 61 cases, compared with 49 cases for the same period in 2016.

Q fever is rarely diagnosed in travellers but is a potential risk regardless of destination. Those at greatest risk include:

• Those living or working closely with animals (i.e. veterinarians, abattoir workers, farmers).
• Those staying for prolonged periods in rural areas, especially in the summer months, where the risk of dust inhalation is increased (includes military personnel).    

Advice to travellers

• Avoid contact with animal body fluids. If this is unavoidable (e.g. for those at occupational risk), protective clothing should be worn.
• Be aware of the risks in very dusty environments.
• Avoid tick bites.
• Avoid unpasteurised dairy products.