Disease
Q Fever (Query Fever)
Overview of Q Fever (Query Fever)
Q fever, short for “Query Fever,” is a rare but potentially serious infection caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. This organism, closely related to rickettsia, is highly resilient and can survive in the environment for extended periods. People typically get infected through direct contact with farm animals, especially sheep, goats and cattle, or by inhaling contaminated dust. While many cases go unnoticed due to mild or no symptoms, others may develop severe illness that requires prompt treatment. Without early intervention, Q fever can sometimes become chronic, leading to long-term health issues.
Types of Query Fever
- Acute Q Fever
Sudden onset with flu-like symptoms
Often self-limiting but may require antibiotics
Commonly presents as high fever, fatigue, and pneumonia - Chronic Q Fever
Develops months or years after initial infection
Primarily affects individuals with existing heart or immune conditions
May lead to life-threatening issues like endocarditis or liver damage
Symptoms of Q Fever (Query Fever)
High fever lasting more than 10 days Persistent headaches and muscle aches Dry cough and chest discomfort Nausea, vomiting, or abdominal pain Excessive fatigue and weakness Sweating and chills Weight loss or loss of appetite Liver inflammation (in some cases, hepatitis) Pneumonia-like respiratory issues In rare cases, confusion or neurological symptoms
Causes of Q Fever (Query Fever)
Caused by bacteria Coxiella burnetii, commonly found in livestock Inhalation of contaminated air or dust near farms or animal facilities
Contact with animal birth fluids, feces, or urine Consumption of raw or unpasteurized milk and dairy products Contaminated clothing or equipment can also carry the bacteria Rarely transmitted from human to human
Complications in Q Fever (Query Fever)
Endocarditis – infection of heart valves, especially in chronic Q fever Chronic fatigue syndrome that can persist for months Liver inflammation or hepatitis Pneumonia requiring hospitalisation Neurological issues like meningitis (rare) Miscarriage or premature delivery in infected pregnant women Increased risk in people with pre-existing heart or immune conditions
Risk Factors of Q Fever (Query Fever)
Close exposure to goats, sheep, or cattle Working in slaughterhouses, dairy farms, or veterinary clinics Living near livestock farms Having a heart valve disorder or weakened immune system Undergoing immunosuppressive therapy Pregnancy (especially during the first trimester)
Lack of protective gear while handling animals
Preventions of Q Fever (Query Fever)
Always wear masks, gloves and protective clothing when working with animals Practice good hand hygiene and wash after animal contact
Ensure proper disposal of animal waste and birthing materials Avoid consuming unpasteurized milk or raw dairy Maintain clean and sanitized livestock areas Quarantine sick animals to prevent spreading Vaccination is available in some high-risk areas (Australia, for example)
Diagnosis of Query Fever
Medical history is crucial, especially recent exposure to livestock Blood tests to detect antibodies against Coxiella burnetii PCR testing for bacterial DNA in early stages Chest X-ray to detect pneumonia Liver function tests in suspected hepatitis cases Serial tests may be required to differentiate between acute and chronic cases
Treatments of Q Fever
Antibiotics (Doxycycline) are the first line of treatment Early treatment within 3 days of symptoms significantly reduces risk of complications Long-term antibiotics may be required for chronic Q fever Hospitalisation in severe cases (e.g., pneumonia, endocarditis) Regular follow-ups to ensure full recovery, especially in chronic cases Supportive care for symptoms like fatigue and pain
Prognosis of Q Fever (Query Fever)
Most acute cases recover completely with timely antibiotics Chronic Q fever has a slower and more challenging recovery process Patients with heart or immune issues require long-term monitoring Proper treatment improves survival even in severe chronic cases Untreated cases can result in life-threatening complications
Care at MyhealthMydoctor
We connect you with specialised infectious disease experts for Q fever care Full diagnostic support including blood tests, imaging, and cultures Access to affordable international treatment options with transparent pricing Personalised treatment plans for both acute and chronic Q fever Assistance with follow-up care, rehabilitation, and second opinions Multilingual support team to help you at every step of your healing journey Dedicated patient coordinators for visa, travel and accommodation help
Some Important Questions Patients Should Ask Their Doctor During a Consultation
- What symptoms should I look out for if I suspect Q fever?
- How is Q fever different from other fever-causing infections?
- Can Q fever become a chronic condition?
- What tests will confirm whether I have Q fever?
- Are antibiotics always necessary for Q fever?
What Patients Expect from Doctors During Consultation?
Clear explanation of your symptoms and possible causes Discussion on your contact with animals or exposure risks Recommendation of appropriate tests for accurate diagnosis Honest overview of treatment options and outcomes Details on medication timing, duration, and side effects Advice on preventing future infections or relapses Supportive guidance for recovery and lifestyle adjustments Open communication in your preferred language or with translation help Empathetic response to all your queries and concerns