Pathogenesis (disease development)
Transmission of the gram-negative bacterium Coxiella burnetii, of the Rickettsiaceae family, occurs through infectious dust (even over long distances), but can also occur through direct contact with the infected animal. Newborn animals are particularly infectious.Transmission through food such as raw milk products is possible in principle. Horizontal as well as vertical human-to-human transmission is possible but rarely described.
Etiology (Causes)
Behavioral causes
- Close contact with animals, especially
- Butcher
- Animal keeper
- Persons in the processing of animal skins
- Persons working in veterinary medicine
- Laboratory personnel
Disease-related causes
Blood, blood-forming organs – immune system (D50-D90).
- Immunosuppression, unspecified – may lead to reactivation of infection.
Pregnancy, childbirth, and puerperium (O00-O99).
