High Seropositivity to Coxiella burnetii Among Goats Sampled in Southwestern Jeonnam Province, South Korea: A Pilot Study

Abstract

Simple Summary Q fever is a zoonotic disease that can spread from infected animals—frequently goats, sheep, and cattle—to humans, posing a significant public health risk. Recently, goat farming has expanded in South Korea, with Jeonnam Province being the largest producing region. However, information regarding Q fever exposure in these goat populations remains highly limited. To address this gap, we tested goat blood samples from 16 farms across five counties in southwestern Jeonnam Province for antibodies against Coxiella burnetii, the bacteria responsible for Q fever. We discovered a high apparent seropositivity, with 44.6% of the tested goats showing positive results. This indicates substantial historical or recent exposure to the bacteria in this major farming region, rather than definitively confirming active infection. Because animals actively shedding the bacteria can transmit the disease to humans—putting farmers, veterinarians, and slaughterhouse workers at serious risk—these findings highlight a clear occupational and public health hazard. We strongly recommend implementing continuous, nationwide disease monitoring programs incorporating molecular diagnostics to better understand the true transmission dynamics and to protect both animal welfare and human health.