Q fever

Key Points

Overview

Q fever is a bacterial infection caused by Coxiella burnetii, typically spread from infected farm animals such as sheep, cattle, and goats. It is most commonly transmitted through close contact with these animals or their products. While many people infected with Q fever experience no symptoms or only mild, flu-like illness that resolves on its own, it can lead to more serious complications in certain individuals. These complications can include severe heart problems, especially in those with pre-existing conditions. Management often involves supportive care, but antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe cases or for individuals at higher risk of complications. Prevention focuses on hygiene and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals or their bodily fluids.

Signs and Symptoms

• High temperature
• Aching muscles
• Tiredness
• Feeling sick
• Sore throat
• Swollen glands

Things That Increase the Risk

• Close contact with farm animals
• Working as a farmer, vet, or abattoir worker
• Drinking unpasteurised milk
• Pregnancy
• Weakened immune system
• Heart valve disease

Diagnosis

• Doctor evaluation based on symptoms
• Blood test to detect infection
• Further tests for baby if pregnant and positive

Treatment & Management

• Antibiotics for 1-2 weeks (if severe or not improving)
• Finish entire course of antibiotics
• Longer antibiotic course for chronic Q fever
• Hospital treatment for complications in chronic cases

Prevention

• Regular hand washing after animal contact
• Clean and cover cuts immediately
• Wear protective clothing (gloves, goggles)
• Safely clean up animal afterbirth
• Avoid helping animals give birth if pregnant
• Do not touch contaminated items (clothes, boots)
• Avoid unpasteurised milk
• Do not eat in animal areas
• Pregnant women: avoid sheep/lambs during lambing season

Related Diseases

• Endocarditis
• Toxoplasmosis
• Influenza

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Q fever: