Q Fever Vaccine in Point Cook
Q fever is a bacterial infection caught mainly from cattle, sheep and goats, and it can cause a severe flu-like illness and long-term fatigue. The Q fever vaccine in Point Cook is for people aged 15 and over whose work or daily life puts them around high-risk animals or their products.
Unlike most vaccines, it cannot be given on the spot. You need a skin test and a blood test first, which means two visits.
Who needs a Q fever vaccine
The Australian Immunisation Handbook recommends the vaccine for adolescents aged 15 and over and adults at risk of infection, including:
- abattoir and meat processing workers
- farmers and shearers
- animal transporters
- veterinarians, vet nurses and vet students
- laboratory workers handling veterinary specimens
- others exposed to cattle, sheep, goats, camels or kangaroos, including birth products
New workers and visitors to these settings have the highest risk. The bacteria can survive for long periods in dust, hay and soil, so you do not have to touch an animal to be exposed. If your employer requires the vaccine, bring any paperwork they have given you.
Why testing comes first
People who have already had Q fever, often without knowing, can have a serious reaction to the vaccine. Both a skin test and a blood test must be negative before the vaccine is given. Testing is not needed, and the vaccine must not be given, if you have a documented past infection or have already been vaccinated.
How the two visits work
First visit. The GP gives a small skin test injection into the inside of the forearm and arranges an antibody blood test. Both can be done on the same day, and Australian Clinical Labs has a pathology collection centre at the clinic.
Second visit, about 7 days later. The skin test is read at 7 days. If the skin test and blood test are both negative, you can have the vaccine. A skin reaction around days 3 to 4 is common and usually settles by day 7, so do not cancel because of it.
Book both appointments when you call, so the second one falls on the right day. If either result is unclear, the GP may repeat the tests two to three weeks later before deciding.
Cost of the Q fever vaccine in Point Cook
From the clinic’s fees table:
- Q Fever Immunisation: total fee $150
- Medicare rebate: $80.10
- out of pocket: $69.90
Payment is due on the day. Ask reception about any other costs when you book.
After vaccination
The vaccine is a single dose, and boosters are not recommended. It is not for children under 15, and it is not routinely recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Better Health Channel lists symptoms to watch for if you work with animals. See a GP if you develop fever, sweats, headaches, muscle aches or a cough after animal contact, and call 000 for trouble breathing.
Common questions
Can I have the vaccine on the same day as the skin test?
No. The skin test has to be read after 7 days, and the blood test result needs to be back, before the GP can decide whether you can be vaccinated.
What if my test is positive?
A positive result usually means you have been exposed before and should not have the vaccine. The doctor will explain what it means for you.
Is this part of a work medical?
It can be. If you also need a pre-employment check, see occupational health.
How do I book?
You can book online or call (03) 7300 7780 and say it is for Q fever testing.
Good to know
Before your appointment
If you are a new patient, please arrive at least five minutes before your consultation and bring:
- Photo ID
- A valid Medicare card
Fees and billing
We offer bulk billing to all patients with a valid Medicare card for standard consultations. All procedures are subject to fees.