Abstract

Q fever is a common zoonosis with almost a worldwide distribution caused by Coxiella burnetii. Farm animals and pets are the main reservoirs of infection and transmission to humans is usually via inhalation of contaminated aerosols. Infection in humans is often asymptomatic, but it can manifest as an acute disease (usually a self-limited flu-like illness, pneumonia or hepatitis) or as a chronic form (mainly endocarditis). The aim of this review was to describe epidemiological and clinical features of Q fever in Tunisia. A systematic review of all published studies of Q fever in Tunisia was conducted. Although prevalence of immunoglobulins anti-C. burnetii was high among animals and blood donors, Q fever was rarely reported and frequently misdiagnosed by physicians.

Key words: Q fever, Coxiella burnetii, epidemiology, Tunisia.