C. burnetii has a worldwide occurrence with an increased prevalence in countries with dense cattle, sheep and goat populations. There are two independent infection cycles: wildlife and domestic, via ticks. 

The animal infection, also called coxiellosis, is characterized by a subclinical phase with a relatively rare and sudden epidemic appearance of abortion. 
Use of ELISA testing allows for the serological diagnosis of Q fever by detecting C. burnetii-specific antibodies. In fact, because of their ease and rapidity, ELISA tests have become the major techniques applied for herd monitoring on a routine basis. 


The Kernel Q Fever Ab Test is an enzyme immunoassay for the detection of antibodies against Coxiella burnetii in serum, plasma and milk samples of ruminants.