Short description: Coxiellosis, caused by the zoontic bacterium Coxiella (C.) burnetii, is a serious problem in small and large ruminant livestock farming. The pathogen can lead to considerable economic losses, e.g. due to increased abortion rates, postpartum behavior and pathogen excretion in milk, as well as to increased use of antibiotics due to the treatment of accompanying clinical symptoms. The COX-SAVE research consortium is taking up this challenge and is working on the development of a modern vaccine using "Low Energy Electron Irradiation (LEEI)", which should offer long-lasting protection, minimize side effects and thus make an important contribution to animal health management and reduce the use of antibiotics in the context of One Health.

Project participants from FLI: 

PD Dr. Michael R. Knittler
PD Dr. Benjamin U. Bauer