Overview
Q fever is an infection caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii , usually acquired from animals (cattle, sheep, goats) or contaminated dust.
Symptoms
Sudden high fever, chills, sweating Severe headache Muscle aches and fatigue Cough or chest discomfort Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea
Causes
Inhalation of contaminated aerosols from animal birth products, urine, milk or faeces Rarely, unpasteurised dairy products Occupational exposure (farmers, abattoir workers, veterinarians)
Diagnosis
Blood tests (serology for phase I/II antibodies) PCR in early disease (where available) Chest X-ray if pneumonia suspected
Treatment
Doxycycline is first-line for acute disease Longer courses (often doxycycline + hydroxychloroquine) for chronic Q fever (e.g., endocarditis) Supportive care: rest, fluids, antipyretics