WORKPLACE HEALTH & SAFETY

Q Fever Information

The Commonwealth Department of Health and Ageing has provided Queensland Health with funding to implement the “National Q Fever Management Program” in Queensland. The aim of this program is to reduce the incidence of Q Fever by vaccinating those who require Q Fever vaccination in “At Risk" occupation groups.

Q Fever is a bacterial infection which presents itself with symptoms similar to influenza – severe headaches, respiratory problems, profuse sweats, lethargy and a general feeling of being unwell. Some people experience post-Q Fever fatigue syndrome. In some cases serious complications have resulted.

Phase 1 of the National Q Fever Management Program commenced in Queensland on 1 November 2001. Vaccine and skin tests are provided to the abattoir workers, contractors to abattoirs and shearers.

Phase 2 of the National Q Fever Management Program commenced on 1 July 2002 and extends to dairy farmers, beef producers and sheep farmers.

The National Q Fever Management Program provides funds for the purchase of the Q Fever skin test and the Q Fever vaccine. All other expenses, blood test and doctor’s consultation fees, must be met by the individual. However, these expenses can be claimed as a business deduction for taxation purposes.

Medicare has announced that from 1 November 2002 unpaid family workers can claim for the blood test and the doctor’s fee associated with receiving the Q Fever vaccination.

Vaccine Service Providers

Doctors qualified to administer the Q Fever vaccination can be found on the Vaccine Service Providers list available on the National Q Fever website.