Every year, hundreds of Australians are diagnosed with Q fever, a disease so serious it’s a class B biological warfare threat.
Those most at risk are people who work with farm animals, particularly during times of drought. So with the forecast of dry times ahead, Landline is asking how well prepared is Australia to deal with a Q fever outbreak?
As you’ll see, the Federal Health Minister Sussan Ley, has promised to keep a watching brief on the subject. And, Landline examines one relatively recent outbreak in Europe to see if there are lessons that can be learnt.
One critical and controversial issue is the extent to which governments are willing to fund vaccination programs.