Reminder on Q fever vaccinations
Issue Date: - Monday, 24 November 2008
Workers in the livestock industry and other occupations that involve handling animals have been reminded that they may need to be vaccinated against the potentially deadly disease Q Fever.
All workers in high-risk industries need to be screened, and must be vaccinated if they are not immune to the disease.
WorkSafe Director Chris Kirwin said today that inspectors would be conducting compliance checks in high-risk industries, and a reminder was required.
“When WorkSafe’s inspectors visit workplaces in the high-risk industries for Q Fever for any reason, they will also check that workers have been vaccinated where it is appropriate,” Mr Kirwin said.
“Q Fever is a zoonosis - a disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans - that can lead to hospitalisation and even death.
“The employees most at risk are abattoir workers, shearers, tanners and stock transport workers, as well as veterinarians and zoo employees.”
The disease is most frequently transmitted via inhalation of airborne bacteria and – less commonly – through direct contact with infected animals and materials.
Symptoms can appear similar to the flu, including high fever, profuse sweating, extreme fatigue and muscle and joint pain.
A percentage of cases lead to the highly incapacitating post-Q Fever Fatigue Syndrome, which has been known to last for several years.
The screening process and vaccine are readily available from specifically trained medical practitioners, listed on the Australian Q Fever Register website at www.qfever.org.
At-risk workers are provided with a zoonosis card that should be carried to prove either that they have been vaccinated or are immune to Q Fever.
“Employers have a duty of care under the occupational safety and health legislation to provide employees with a safe working environment,” Mr Kirwin said.
“This includes protecting employees from potentially deadly diseases by ensuring vaccination is carried out if appropriate and ensuring that a Q Fever card is provided to employees.
“Q Fever can kill, so I urge both employers and employees in high risk industries to ensure all at-risk workers are screened for immunity and vaccinated if not immune.”
Further information on Q Fever and other zoonoses can be obtained by telephoning WorkSafe on 9327 8777, or on the website at www.worksafe.wa.gov.au.
Media contact: Caroline De Vaney 9327 8744 or 0408 927563 (media enquiries only).