Coxiella burnetii in samples from cattle herds and sheep flocks in the Kars region of Turkey

This study was aimed at determining the presence of C. burnetii in cattle and sheep herds in the Kars region of Turkey using serological and molecular methods. As a serological technique, C. burnetii IgG in blood sera and milk samples were investigated with ELISA. The results of these examinations revealed that 108 (43.2%) out of 250 sheep blood serum samples and 52 (14.85%) out of 350 cattle blood serum samples were seropositive for C. burnetii antibodies by ELISA. Out of 350 cattle and 250 sheep milk samples examined with ELISA, 36 (10.28%) and 42 (16.8%) were found to be seropositive, respectively. For molecular analysis, a Trans-PCR amplifying the IS1111A transposase gene of C. burnetii was conducted. Five (1.42%) out of 350 cattle milk samples, and one (0.4%) from 250 sheep milk samples were found to be positive for C. burnetii DNA. The results obtained in this study have demonstrated the presence of Q fever in cattle and sheep in the Kars region, and the dissemination of the infectious agent within milk. This situation poses a potential risk for animal and human health. Ultimately, this study points the way to future investigations into the presence of C. burnetii, which causes Q fever in cattle and sheep, and will contribute to the protection and control of the disease.