Q fever
Q Fever
Q Fever (pronounced: /kjuː 'fiːvər/), also known as query fever, is a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. The disease was first identified in 1937 in Queensland, Australia, hence the name "Q".
Etymology
The "Q" in Q Fever stands for "query" as the cause of the disease was uncertain at the time of its first observation. The term was coined by Dr. Edward Holbrook Derrick during the initial investigations of the disease in the 1930s in Queensland, Australia.
Symptoms
Q Fever can present as either acute or chronic illness. Acute symptoms may include fever, headache, malaise, and pneumonia. Chronic Q Fever can lead to more serious complications such as endocarditis, an inflammation of the heart valves.
Transmission
Q Fever is primarily transmitted to humans through inhalation of aerosols from contaminated soil or animal waste. It can also be transmitted through the ingestion of raw milk from infected animals. The primary reservoirs of Coxiella burnetii are farm animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Q Fever is typically confirmed through serology, the study of blood serum, specifically looking for the presence of Coxiella burnetii antibodies.
Treatment
Treatment for Q Fever typically involves antibiotics such as doxycycline or hydroxychloroquine. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
Prevention
Prevention of Q Fever involves controlling the bacteria in animal populations and educating those at risk about the disease. A vaccine is available but is typically only recommended for those at high risk of infection.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Q fever
- Wikipedia's article - Q fever
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