Causes, Transmission, And Risk Factors Of Rift Valley Fever

Veterinary Procedures

Veterinarians in regions of southern Africa and the Arabian peninsula are at increased risk of exposure to Rift Valley fever virus. Studies indicate close contact with domesticated livestock is the primary route of transmission to humans. In a wave of cases in South Africa in 2008, twenty-one percent of veterinarians had acute illness compared to nine percent of local farmers. The data showed direct contact such as animal autopsies significantly increased the risk of contracting the disease. Numerous veterinary procedures such as surgical intervention on an infected animal may spread the virus to vets and staff. Since Rift Valley fever can be transmitted by inhalation of infected droplets, biosafety measures should always include gloves, goggles, and face masks.

Get to know the occupations most at risk for developing Rift Valley fever now.