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Q Fever

A zoonosis caused by Coxiella burnetii, transmitted from animal reservoirs, presenting with acute flu-like illness and chronic endocarditis.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Internal Medicine department. Book Appointment →

What is Q Fever?

Q fever is a globally widespread zoonotic infection caused by Coxiella burnetii, an obligate intracellular bacterium. Its reservoirs are primarily farm animals, mainly sheep, goats, and cattle.

Transmission is mostly through inhalation of dry aerosols originating from infected animal birth products and urine/feces. Consumption of unpasteurized milk can also be a route of transmission.

Acute Q fever presents with flu-like fever, headache, myalgia, and atypical pneumonia. Chronic Q fever may develop in some patients; endocarditis is its most serious form. Doxycycline is the mainstay treatment.

Symptoms

Sudden onset of high fever
Severe headache (retro-orbital)
Muscle and joint aches
Dry cough and atypical pneumonia
Hepatitis (elevated liver enzymes)
Weakness and night sweats
Endocarditis, prolonged fever, weight loss in chronic form

Risk Factors

Farmers, livestock workers, slaughterhouse employees
Veterinarians
Consumption of unpasteurized milk and dairy products
Contact with animal birth products
Bioterrorism target agent (spore form)
Windy and dry climate (aerosol spread)
Valvular heart disease, pregnancy, immunosuppression for endocarditis

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Fever and pneumonia after animal contact
  • Prolonged fever and muscle pain
  • Unexplained hepatitis
  • Suspected endocarditis (prolonged fever + heart murmur)
  • Evaluation after risky exposure during pregnancy

Treatment Methods

01
Doxycycline for 14 days in acute Q fever
02
Doxycycline + hydroxychloroquine for endocarditis (18-24 months)
03
Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole during pregnancy
04
Echocardiographic monitoring and serological follow-up
05
Personal protective equipment and pasteurization
06
Chronic infection screening in risk groups

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About Enfeksiyon Hastalıkları Department

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You can make an appointment with our specialists or contact us for your concerns.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.