Epidemiological Patterns and Impacts of Q Fever in Ruminants: A Retrospective Analysis between 2005-2022 in Palestine

Alzuheir, Ibrahim M

doi:10.21608/ejvs.2025.329237.2436

Epidemiological Patterns and Impacts of Q Fever in Ruminants: A Retrospective Analysis between 2005-2022 in Palestine

Articles in Press

Document Type : Original Article

Author

Ibrahim M Alzuheir

https://staff.najah.edu/ar/profiles/2488/

10.21608/ejvs.2025.329237.2436

Abstract

Q fever, a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, leads to economic losses in livestock and health impacts in humans and ruminants. This study investigated the epidemiology of Q fever in ruminants in Palestine between 2005 and 2022. Data were collected from the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH), focusing on the number of outbreaks, susceptible animals, cases, and deaths. Epidemiological parameters including mortality, morbidity, and case fatality rates were calculated. The study revealed minimal outbreaks between 2005 and 2009, followed by increase cases from 2010 to 2014. The highest number of outbreaks was recorded in 2019, with subsequent decreases in infection and mortality rates. Seasonal peak outbreaks corresponded with birthing periods, emphasizing the need for increased caution during these times. Preventative measures, including vaccination and improved animal management practices, are recommended to control the spread of Q fever. This study highlights the importance of ongoing surveillance and targeted interventions to mitigate the impact of Q fever in Palestine, which has a high nutritional value due to its abundance of vitamins, protein, and other growth-promoting ingredients.

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