NSW farmers are being warned to take extra precautions as the dry and windy conditions increase the risk of Q fever spreading across the state.
The bacterial infection is carried by cattle, goats, sheep and other domesticated and wild animals, and can be spread by winds with people at risk if they inhale dust containing dried animal secretions.
"In these current dry, windy conditions, the bacteria can spread over vast areas, so we're urging people working with animals to be aware of symptoms and take steps to protect themselves," NSW Health's Dr Vicky Sheppeard said.
Cases mostly occur in the north and west regions of NSW and mostly affect men aged 40 and over.
The risk of infection can be reduced by thoroughly washing your hands and arms after contact with animals or their products and wearing protective equipment when carrying out high-risk activities with animals.
A single-dose vaccine is recommended for people who work in high-risk occupations and anyone over 15 years who has the potential to be exposed to Q fever.
"People aged over 15 who live or work on the land should talk to their GP about getting a vaccination as the illness can affect your entire working life," Dr Sheppeard said.
Q fever symptoms appear like a very severe flu and include high fevers and chills, severe sweats, severe headaches, muscle and joint pains and extreme fatigue.
The number of Q fever cases in NSW has ranged from 181 to 263 in the last five years, with the highest number in 2015, NSW Health said.
The NSW government has invested $475,000 to help protect farmers and other people in rural areas who work with animals from the infection.
