You may have muscle pains, severe headaches and fever. As it takes hold, you may also have chills, a stiff neck, and be sensitive to light. All symptoms usually ease within 10 days, but may recur. The kidneys may be affected and internal bleeding occur, and at this stage it can be fatal. Q fever may progress from high fever, muscle pain and headache to pneumonia.
Some people also develop liver and heart problems.
Both Leptospirosis and Q fever can be treated with antibiotics. If you think you may be infected with either disease, see a doctor quickly. Tell the doctor you have been in contact with animals and may have caught a disease from them, or show your Occupational Health Alert Card. In the case of either disease, a blood test is needed to confirm infection. Reducing risks Leptospirosis Abattoir workers should be trained to recognise animal carcases infected with Leptospirosis.