Efficiency of a phase 1 vaccine for the reduction of vaginal Coxiella burnetii shedding in a clinically affected goat herd.

The main route of human Q fever infections is inhalation of infectious aerosols. The bacterial agent, Coxiella burnetii, is frequently found throughout domestic ruminants. Females constitute potential shedders of C. burnetii through vaginal mucus, faeces and milk. Q fever is also a common cause of abortion, especially in goats. Massive load of bacteria is associated with placentas and aborted foetuses. In experimental conditions, the Coxevac inactivated phase 1 vaccine (CEVA Sante Animale, Libourne, France) was efficient, and dramatically reduced abortion and excretion of bacteria [1]. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the Coxevac vaccination impact on bacterial shedding in goats affected by Q fever in natural conditions.