The EU Q Fever Committee is pleased to announce the launch of its new website, euqfevercommittee.com, the first dedicated online platform designed to provide essential knowledge and resources on Q Fever. This zoonotic disease affects over half of dairy cattle herds and nearly one-third of small ruminant herds in Europe. The new website aims to equip animal and human health professionals with the necessary tools and information to understand and effectively combat Q Fever.
Bridging the Knowledge Gap on Q Fever
The EU Q Fever Committee was established in 2024 in response to a lack of awareness and an underestimation of the prevalence and severity of Q Fever. A recent perception study conducted by the Committee in collaboration with an independent Market Research company revealed significant knowledge gaps among key stakeholders:
- While Q Fever is known among practitioners, only 26% of farmers are aware of Q Fever.
- Diagnostic challenges and inconsistent management practices persist, both in livestock and in human cases, leading to underdiagnosis and suboptimal control measures.
The same study also indicated that digital channels are currently the main source of information about health topics for veterinarians, farmers and human physicians.
A Centralized Resource for Information and Action
To address these challenges, and taking into consideration the most relevant communication platforms, the new website serves as an educational hub, providing concise, up-to-date information and expert-developed resources for professionals, including farmers, veterinarians and medical practitioners.
According to Raphaël Guatteo, Professor of Bovine Medicine at Oniris and Co-Chair of the EU Q Fever Committee, “Thanks to recent scientific advancements and improved management methods, we now have effective tools to fight Q Fever. Our goal is to provide practical, targeted responses tailored to the needs of each stakeholder. This website acts as a resource center, complementing existing awareness and training initiatives.”
What You Will Find on euqfevercommittee.com:
Understanding Q Fever
- A comprehensive overview of the latest knowledge on Q Fever.
- Insights from the 2024 perception study conducted by the EU Q Fever Committee with an Independent Market Research company, involving farmers, veterinarians, and human physicians.
Taking Action
- Educational fact sheets (Q- Facts) on Q Fever surveillance, diagnostic procedures, and management strategies for veterinarians and livestock professionals.
- A quarterly e-newsletter covering the latest scientific, regulatory, and professional updates on Q fever.
The launch of this website marks a significant step forward in raising awareness and equipping professionals with the necessary tools to tackle Q fever more effectively. Visit euqfevercommittee.com today to access these valuable resources.