Q fever
Introduction
Q fever is a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected animals mostcommonly by sheep, cattle and goats.
The infection is found worldwide, but cases in humans are rare in the UK. Around 50 cases of Q fever are reported in the UK each year.
Most people with Q fever will either have no symptoms, or will only have mild flu-like symptoms that pass within two weeks.
However,the symptoms cansometimes lastseveral months, and occasionally the infection can lead to life-threatening problems if it spreads to other parts of the body, such as the heart.
If you get Q fever while pregnant,your baby may be born early or have a low birthweight,and there is ariskof havinga Miscarriage or stillbirth .
Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 29 Nov 2016
Introduction
Q fever is a bacterial infection that can be spread to humans by infected animals most commonly sheep, cattle and goats.
How Q fever is spread
Q fever is caused by Coxiella burnetii (C. burnetii) bacteria. The animals that pose the biggest risk to humans are: sheep cows goats domesticated pets such as cats,dogs andrabbits The bacteria
Who's most at risk?
People who work closely with livestock are most at risk, such as: farmers stablehands abattoir workers meat packers vets You're also more vulnerable to theinfection, and more likely to experie
Signs and symptoms
Q fever doesn't always cause symptoms. If you do develop symptoms, this is usually within two to three weeks of infection. The main symptoms of Q fever include: a high temperature (fever) severe h
When to seek medical advice
You should see your GP if you develop severe or persistent symptoms of Q fever, oryou're pregnant andare worried you may have been exposed to the infection. Your GP may suspect Q fever if you have re
Treating Q fever
Q fever usually lasts for about two weeks and often gets better without treatment, although you may need to take antibiotics for 7-14 daysif your symptoms are severe or don't improve. If you are pres
Preventing Q fever
A vaccine for Q fever isnt available in the UK, so the best way to avoid theinfection is to reduce your exposure to potentially infected material. If you work with animals, you should: wash your ha
Subscribe
Ask the doctor
Rate this article
Find products