Q fever is a disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. It is a zoonotic disease, meaning it is transmitted to humans by animals—most commonly sheep, goats, and cattle.
While usually a mild disease with flu-like symptoms, it can resurface years later in a small percentage of people. This chronic form is more dangerous and can damage the heart, liver, brain, and lungs.
Symptoms
Many people infected with Q fever never show symptoms. If symptoms do appear, they usually start 2 to 3 weeks after exposure. Signs include:
- High fever: Up to 105 F (40.5 C).
- Severe headache.
- Fatigue.
- Cough.
- Nausea.
- Diarrhea.
Causes & Transmission
The bacteria Coxiella burnetii is found in the urine, feces, milk, and birth products (placenta/amniotic fluid) of infected animals. When these substances dry, the bacteria become part of barnyard dust that floats in the air.
Transmission: Humans usually get infected by inhaling these contaminated dust particles. The bacteria can travel long distances in the wind.
Risk Factors
1. Occupational Risks
You are at higher risk if you work directly with animals or animal products:
- Farmers and Livestock workers.
- Veterinarians.
- Meat processing workers.
- Researchers working with sheep.
2. Medical Risks (Chronic Q Fever)
You are at higher risk of developing the deadly chronic form if you have:
- Heart valve disease.
- Blood vessel abnormalities.
- A weakened immune system.
Complications
If Q fever recurs (Chronic Q Fever), it can cause serious damage:
- Endocarditis: Inflammation of the membrane lining the heart valves. This is the most common and deadly complication.
- Lung Issues: Pneumonia and acute respiratory distress.
- Pregnancy Problems: Increased risk of miscarriage, premature birth, or stillbirth.
- Liver Damage: Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver).
- Meningitis: Inflammation of the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves checking for antibodies and organ damage:
- Blood Tests: To detect antibodies to the Coxiella burnetii antigen.
- Chest X-ray: To check the lungs for pneumonia.
- Echocardiography: To check heart valves for endocarditis if chronic fever is suspected.
Treatment
Treatment depends on whether the infection is acute (mild) or chronic (severe).
1. Acute Q Fever
Mild cases often clear up within two weeks without treatment. For more severe symptoms, doctors prescribe antibiotics (typically Doxycycline).
2. Chronic Q Fever
Chronic Q fever is a serious infection. Patients typically need to take a combination of antibiotics for at least 18 months. Even after treatment, follow-up tests are required for years to ensure the infection does not return.
3. Surgery
If the infection has caused Q fever Endocarditis, surgery may be required to repair or replace damaged heart valves.
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