The University Medical Center Groningen (UMCG) is launching a significant study this month on Q fever in pregnant women. The goal is to determine if routine blood testing for Q fever should be standard for all pregnant women in high-risk areas.
North Brabant is a primary risk area. Pregnant women from this province are invited to participate in the blood test. Half the group will be immediately tested for Q fever, while the other half's blood will be tested after delivery. This approach will reveal the true value of early screening.
Participants will also provide online health data. Results are expected by the end of 2010.
In the Netherlands, Q fever is most prevalent in North Brabant but is spreading elsewhere. Read more about Q fever here>
