Q fever and toxoplasmosis in South African livestock and wildlife: a retrospective study on seropositivity, sporadic abortion, and stillbirth cases in livestock caused by Coxiella burnetii

Abstract

We have confirmed the occurrence of the causative agents of Q fever and toxoplasmosis in livestock and wildlife in South Africa, with data limitations. These zoonoses remain of importance with limited information about them in South Africa. This study provides baseline information for future studies on Q fever and toxoplasmosis in South African livestock and wildlife, as well other African countries. Due to limited data collection experienced in this study, it is recommended that improvements in data collection samples tested should include associated factors such as sex, age, and breed of the animals.