Which organism is explicitly listed in the compendium as shedding during birthing?

• A. Coxiella burnetii
• B. Escherichia coli
• C. Staphylococcus aureus
• D. Streptococcus pneumoniae

Answer: (A)

In this area, the agent that is known to be shed in birthing materials is Coxiella burnetii. The compendium notes that this organism is released in birth products—such as placentas, fetal membranes, birth fluids, and vaginal secretions—from ruminants like cattle, sheep, and goats. Humans can be exposed via aerosols formed when these materials are disturbed, making birthing events a recognized source of transmission for Q fever. The other organisms listed are important pathogens in various contexts, but they are not specifically highlighted in the compendium as being shed during birthing.