Associate Safety Professional Practice Exam

Which workers are most at risk for Q fever?

1. Healthcare workers only

2. Construction workers only

3. Farmers, veterinarians, and slaughterhouse workers

4. Office workers

The correct answer is: Farmers, veterinarians, and slaughterhouse workers

Q fever is primarily caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, which is often found in livestock, such as cattle, sheep, and goats. The workers most at risk for exposure to this bacterium are those who are frequently in contact with animals or animal products. Farmers, veterinarians, and slaughterhouse workers have direct interactions with livestock and animal byproducts, making them particularly susceptible to contracting Q fever through inhalation of contaminated aerosols, direct contact with infected animals, or handling their products. This occupational exposure significantly increases the likelihood of infection, which is why this group is highlighted as being at the highest risk. Other worker populations, such as healthcare or construction workers, may have different occupational hazards but do not have the same level of direct exposure to the sources of Q fever. Similarly, office workers, who typically do not encounter animals in their daily activities, face minimal risk for this zoonotic disease. Therefore, the correct answer identifies those whose work inherently involves interactions with potential sources of Q fever.