Query fever

Query Fever (also known as Q Fever) is a disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. This bacterium is common in cattle, sheep, and goats and can be transmitted to humans through the inhalation of dust contaminated with these animals' feces, urine, milk, or birth products.

Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of Query Fever can vary greatly. Some people may not show any symptoms at all, while others may experience severe symptoms. Common symptoms include high fever, severe headache, general malaise, myalgia, confusion, sore throat, chills, sweats, non-productive cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and chest pain.

Diagnosis of Query Fever is usually based on a combination of clinical symptoms and laboratory testing. The most common test is a serology test, which looks for antibodies to Coxiella burnetii in the blood.

Treatment and Prevention

Treatment for Query Fever typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or hydroxychloroquine. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.

Prevention of Query Fever involves reducing exposure to animals and animal products that may be infected with Coxiella burnetii. This can include using appropriate personal protective equipment when handling animals or animal products, and ensuring that animals are properly vaccinated.

Epidemiology

Query Fever is found worldwide, but is most common in areas where cattle, sheep, and goats are raised. The disease is most common in the spring and early summer, and is more common in men than in women.

See Also

• Zoonosis
• Public Health
• Infectious Disease