Gunaratnam, Praveena

Massey, Peter D

Eastwood, Keith

Durrhein, David

Graves, Stephen

Coote, Diana

Fisher, Louise

2014

Background Zoonotic infections such as Q fever, brucellosis and leptospirosis can lead to serious complications but pose diagnostic and management challenges to general practitioners (GPs) as patients often present with non-specific symptoms such as fever. Objective To develop a tool to assist GPs in the diagnosis and management of common zoonotic infections Discussion An algorithm was developed with advice and comments from GPs, laboratory specialists and infectious disease specialists. Emphasis is placed on understanding patient risk factors, such as non-household contact with animals, excluding other possible causes of fever, such as influenza, and commencing empirical treatment as soon as a zoonotic infection is suspected. The algorithm is not exhaustive and GPs are urged to consult infectious disease specialists and medical microbiologists for further guidance if required.

Australian Family Physician, 43(3), p. 124-128

0300-8495

https://hdl.handle.net/1959.11/20684

en

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP)

Diagnosis and management of zoonoses - a tool for general practice

Journal Article

Publication