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Q Fever

Q fever is a disease, which is caused mainly by the bacteria Coxiella burnetti. This bacterium is usually found in animals like sheep, cattle, goat, ticks, rabbits, cats, dogs, and even birds. Coxiella burnette can survive in dust for months together and hence humans can get infected when they come in contact with the contaminated dust.

Target Group

People who are usually infected by these bacteria are the ones who work with animals, or products produced by them. These people are usually farm workers, woolworkers, slaughterhouse workers, veterinarians, and people working in the meat plant house.

Type of Ailment

Q fever is not a medically distinct infection but may be similar to a viral infection or pneumonia. Chronic Q fever, which is not very common, is considered a more serious illness Q fever may turn into a chronic form if it continues for more than six months.

Symptoms

The person may have symptoms like:

  • High fever up to 105 F
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sore throat and cough
  • Chills
  • Sweats
  • Muscle pain
  • Acute chest pain
  • Stomach pain

Affected Area

The other problems that are associated with this illness are inflammation of the heart muscle, inflammation of liver, inflammation of the outer layers of the brain and spinal cord, or of the brain. There are also chances of developing pneumonia.

Causes

  • Inhalation of bacteria that may be in the air
  • Intake of contaminated raw milk
  • Infected ticks bites
  • Coming in contact of contaminated bird fluids and feces of infected animal

Risk to Others

Others are at a minimum risk as the disease does not spread from person to person.

Risk to Sufferer

Only around 50% of people infected with the bacteria show symptoms of illness. Most people recover completely. Very few patients die of Q fever but people suffering with chronic illness may have further complications, which may be serious.

Treatment

Q fever may not require any treatment, as it is a self-limited illness. Antibiotics like Tetracycline and Doxycycline are effective for treatment. However chronic Q fever may be difficult to treat.

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