How do humans typically acquire Coxiella burnetii?

How do humans typically acquire Coxiella burnetii?

• A. Inhalation of dusts and aerosols from excreta
• B. Ingestion of contaminated water
• C. Direct contact with animals
• D. Mosquito bites

Answer: (A)

Infections with Coxiella burnetii are most commonly acquired through inhalation of aerosols or dust contaminated with animal excreta, especially birth products from livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats. This organism is remarkably hardy in the environment, so tiny particles from dried placental tissue, urine, or feces can be inhaled and establish infection even without direct contact with the animals. While handling animals or their birth products can expose a person, the inhalation route is the most efficient and typical means of transmission. Ingestion of contaminated water is not the usual route, and transmission by mosquito bites is not a recognized pathway for Q fever.

Infections with Coxiella burnetii are most commonly acquired through inhalation of aerosols or dust contaminated with animal excreta, especially birth products from livestock such as cattle, sheep, and goats. This organism is remarkably hardy in the environment, so tiny particles from dried placental tissue, urine, or feces can be inhaled and establish infection even without direct contact with the animals. While handling animals or their birth products can expose a person, the inhalation route is the most efficient and typical means of transmission. Ingestion of contaminated water is not the usual route, and transmission by mosquito bites is not a recognized pathway for Q fever.