Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Consecutive epidemics of Q fever in a residential facility for drug abusers: impact on persons with human immunodeficiency virus infection.
Clin Infect Dis. 1999 Apr;28(4):866-72. Unique Identifier : AIDSLINE MED/20283199 Boschini A; Di Perri G; Legnani D; Fabbri P; Ballarini P; Zucconi R; Boros S; Rezza G; San Patrignano Medical Center, Rimini, Italy. boschini@infotel.it
Abstract:
Two large outbreaks of Q fever occurred in 1987 and 1988 in an agricultural community for the rehabilitation of drug users. Approximately 40% of the residents were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)-positive. Two hundred thirty-five residents presented with clinical evidence of a flulike syndrome that was confirmed to be Q fever; moreover, a large proportion of residents developed an asymptomatic infection. Clinical signs and symptoms were rather nonspecific: fever, malaise, and muscle pain that were often associated with pulmonary symptoms. Single or multiple opacities were detected, with mild interstitial inflammation evident on chest roentgenograms. The source of infection was the sheepfold, which is part of the stock-farming activity of the community. Both outbreaks occurred just after lambing had begun. Residents who were exposed during the first epidemic were protected in the second one. The attack rate among HIV-positive residents was significantly higher than that among HIV-negative residents in the first outbreak, whereas only a slight, marginally significant difference was observed in the second outbreak. The clinical features of Q fever did not differ between HIV-positive and HIV-negative individuals. No cases of relapse or chronic disease were observed.
Keywords: JOURNAL ARTICLE Adult Antibodies, Bacterial/BLOOD Coxiella burnetii/IMMUNOLOGY *Disease Outbreaks Female Human HIV Infections/*COMPLICATIONS Incidence Italy/EPIDEMIOLOGY Male Q Fever/*EPIDEMIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY *Residential Facilities Risk Factors *Substance Abuse Treatment Centers Substance Abuse, Intravenous/*COMPLICATIONS/REHABILITATION
AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from
Elton John AIDS Foundation,
the National Library of Medicine,
and donations from users like you. Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2000. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.
AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.
Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2000. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
