NI Agri-Rural Health Forum event - ‘Spread info, not infection’
The NI Agri- Rural Health Forum will bring their popular autumn meeting to Co. Fermanagh this year.
All farmers and others in the rural community are invited to the Corrick House Hotel on Thursday, 12th November 2026 7.30pm to consider human and farmed animals’ health.
This year the hot topic is infections with a focus on Q fever. Q fever is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii which can infect humans, cattle, sheep and goats.
The event will start with a hot supper, and then two speakers – Dr Mark Little, a leading veterinary surgeon, and Dr Patrick McAleavey, a Consultant in Health Protection.
Mark will explain about the impact of the disease in livestock, how its presence is often missed and consequences under estimated. He will then discuss how to protect your farm from the impact of Q fever. Patrick will share information that the Public Health Agency have collected to show how and why humans, farm-families in particular, become infected. While Q fever is often a mild infection, serious consequences can arise occasionally, especially in some patient groups.
This meeting is part of the NIARHF’s current campaign, in association with the UK Sepsis Trust, to raise awareness of sepsis. Sepsis is a medical emergency that can arise from a ‘simple’ infection or cut. Such injuries are common whilst farming and farmers for many reasons may delay seeking medical attention. It is vital that help is promptly sought where a cut or illness seems to be getting worse rather than better.
Knowing the signs of sepsis is helpful so one can know when to seek advice early and importantly ask ‘Could this be sepsis?’
During the panel discussions farmers will also be able to ask the experts questions.
Q fever is an infectious disease that, like other bacteria on farm, is not frequently encountered by medical practitioners. Management may be delayed if farmers do not alert to their occupation and exposures. This meeting will equip you with the information you need to protect both your livestock and family.
The event is generously supported by Ceva Animal Health. To ensure organisers have food for everyone, they would appreciate if you could pre-register on the Ulster Farmers’ Union event page or call Paul on 07870947791.