Q-Fieber: Eine in Süddeutschland endemische Infektionskrankheit

Comparative analysis of two Q fever epidemics in Baden-Württemberg demonstrated the following characteristics of this zoo-anthroponosis endemic in southern Germany: 1. affected areas are situated along sheep tracks and natural concentrations of the Dermacentor marginatus. 2. The disease spreads in waves. 3. It causes typical symptoms, particular an intense tension headache, and typical radiographic findings. Men are more commonly and more severely affected than women. Children are not affected despite proven exposure. 4. The CBR antibody titre is a reliable laboratory diagnostic parameter. 5. Epidemiological measures (search for the source of infection, elimination of seropositive sheep, use of disinfectants) reduce the reservoir of the infective agent. 6. The therapeutic drug of choice is doxycyclin.