Q-FEVER

Q fever is an infection caused by Coxiella burnetii bacteria and can be spread to humans by infected animals such as sheep, cattle and goats through inhalation of particles around these infected hosts or drinking unpasteurized milk. Most patients with Q fever will have little to no symptoms.

Main symptoms of Q fever, if they manifest, include:

  • Fever
  • Flu-like symptoms such as sore throat, runny nose, chest pain or cough
  • Headaches
  • Muscle and joint pains
  • Sweats
  • Weight loss

Most symptoms pass within two weeks or may fully recover within this time period.

Diagnosis

Consult physician if patient develops severe or persistent symptoms of Q fever, if patient is pregnant or have been exposed to infection. Those in close contact with the patient should also be checked.

Physical may request the following tests:

  • Laboratory studies (CBC, Liver function tests, ESR)
  • Serology tests (ELISA, PCR)
  • Radiologic studies (CT, Chest x-ray)

 

Recommended Management

Q fever commonly lasts for two weeks and often gets better without treatment. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, antibiotics may be needed for 7=14 days.

Serious complications after prescribed treatment should be directed immediately for hospital admission.

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