Q fever (also referred to as Query fever) is a bacterial infection caused by Coxiella burnetii, most commonly found in cattle, sheep, and goats. Humans get Q fever when they breathe in dust contaminated by infected animals.
It may cause mild symptoms similar to the flu. However, many people sometimes show no signs whatsoever. In addition, mild forms of the disease may resolve in a couple of weeks without any treatment.
A more severe form of disease develops in rare cases, meaning it could persist for six months or more.
Patients with heart valve issues or weak immune systems are at the highest risk of developing Q fever.
Chronic Q fever is considered severe as it can damage a person’s vital organs such as the liver, heart, brain and lungs.
Symptoms of Q fever
Symptoms of Q fever do not appear until 2 to 3 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. However, it is possible that you may have the infection and not show any signs. If they appear, they are generally mild.
Symptoms can vary from one to another. Common symptoms of mild Q fever are:
- a high fever
- chills or sweats
- a cough
- nausea
- chest pain while breathing
- clay-coloured stools
- a headache
- shortness of breath
- muscle
- jaundice
- diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- pain
What are the causes of Q fever?
Q fever is an infection caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. It is typically found in animals such as sheep, cattle and goats.
In rare cases, consuming unpasteurised milk could cause infection. However, the bacteria cannot be spread from one human to another.
Who is at the highest risk for Q fever?
Since the bacteria infect cattle, sheep, and goats people that are at the highest risk for infection may include:
- farmers
- people who work around sheep
- veterinarians
- people living in or close to farms
Also, people that work in the dairy industry, meat processing facilities, research laboratories with livestock and C. burnetii are at a greater risk of catching the diseases.
The prevention of Q fever
The Q fever vaccine has been successful in Australia for people working in high-risk environments. One that is at high risk for the diseases and has not been vaccinated yet should take the following steps to prevent being infected by the disease:
- Properly disinfect and sterilise exposed areas
- Proper disposal of all birth materials after a livestock animal has given birth
- Washing hands thoroughly
- Quarantine infected animals
- Make sure the milk is pasteurised
- Testing animals routinely for infection
Suppose you are confused about getting infected by the bacteria or have recently been diagnosed with Q fever and seek to book a medical appointment online. In that case, Drayton Medical is here to help!
We collaborate with certified healthcare professionals to recommend proper treatment, vaccination and testing procedures to help you get better. Please visit our website to know more.