Q fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii. It affects both humans and animals. The name "Q" originates from "query" fever, its name before the causative bacteria were identified in the 1930s. The illness can range from mild to severe, even potentially fatal.
Transmission and Sources
Humans typically contract Q fever through contact with infected animals, primarily sheep, goats, and cattle. The bacteria can be present in animal products such as milk, urine, and feces. Inhalation of contaminated dust or aerosols from animal birthing fluids is a common route of infection.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Q fever are varied and can mimic other illnesses. They may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Chills
- Fatigue
In more severe cases, Q fever can lead to pneumonia, hepatitis, or even endocarditis (inflammation of the heart lining).
Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis involves blood tests to detect antibodies against Coxiella burnetii. Treatment typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or erythromycin.
Research and Studies
Numerous studies have investigated Q fever, including the development of vaccines and skin tests for diagnosis. One study, “Initial clinical and immunologic evaluation of a new phase I Q fever vaccine and skin test in humans,” published in the Journal of Infectious Diseases in 1983, evaluated a new skin test's efficacy (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/6350491/). Other research focuses on understanding the long-term effects of Q fever, such as post-Q-fever fatigue syndrome (https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/rr6203a1.htm).
The reference to "I.Q. Fever" in the provided text relates to a movie title, I.Q., and is unrelated to the infectious disease Q fever.
