Q Fever

Overview

Q fever is a bacterial infection that you can catch from animals, especially sheep, goats, and cattle. It often causes flu-like symptoms, but most people recover fully with treatment.

Q fever is fairly rare in the general population. It is more common among people who work with livestock, such as farmers, veterinarians, and slaughterhouse workers.

Anyone can get Q fever, but people with close contact with cattle, sheep, or goats are at highest risk. It can affect adults, children, and older adults, though children often have milder symptoms.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• High fever
• Severe headache
• Fatigue and weakness
• Muscle aches
• Chills and sweats
• Dry cough

Symptoms in children

• Mild fever
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Loss of appetite

Symptoms in older adults

• High fever
• Confusion or difficulty thinking clearly
• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain

Causes

Main causes

• Q fever is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii.
• People usually get infected by breathing in dust or droplets from infected animals, especially during birth or slaughter.
• Rarely, it can be spread by drinking unpasteurized milk or from tick bites.

Risk factors

• Working with livestock (farmers, veterinarians, slaughterhouse workers)
• Living near farms or animal markets
• Handling animal birth products or manure
• Having a weakened immune system

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have high fever with severe headache or cough that is getting worse
• If you have been in contact with livestock and feel very unwell

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you have mild flu-like symptoms that last more than a week
• If you have ongoing fatigue after a farm-related illness

Diagnosis

Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and any contact with animals. A blood test is the main way to diagnose Q fever.

Tests that may be done

• Blood test to detect antibodies against the Q fever bacterium
• Sometimes a PCR test (looking for the bacterium's genetic material) in the early phase
• If chronic Q fever is suspected, echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) or imaging scans may be done

What to expect at your appointment

The blood test results may take a few days to come back. Your doctor may start treatment based on your symptoms and risk factors while waiting for results. For chronic Q fever, you may need to see a specialist and have regular check-ups.

Treatment

Q fever is treated with antibiotics. The type and length of treatment depend on whether the infection is acute (short-term) or chronic (long-term). It is important to take all medication as prescribed.

Self-care at home

• Get plenty of rest
• Drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen (as directed) for fever and aches – check with your doctor first if you have other health conditions

Medical treatments

Antibiotics are the main treatment. For acute Q fever, a course of antibiotics is usually given for about two to three weeks. For chronic Q fever, longer treatment (often 18 months or more) with a combination of antibiotics may be needed, and you will be under the care of a specialist.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is not a treatment for Q fever itself, but in chronic cases with heart valve damage, surgery may be needed to repair or replace the valve. This would be decided by a heart specialist.

Living with this condition

Most people with acute Q fever recover completely within a few weeks. Some may feel tired for several months. For chronic Q fever, you will need ongoing medical care and regular check-ups.

Lifestyle tips

• Take your medication exactly as prescribed, even if you start to feel better
• Keep a symptom diary to share with your doctor
• Avoid contact with livestock or animal birthing areas until your doctor says it is safe

Diet and exercise

Eat a healthy, balanced diet to support your immune system. Gradually return to exercise as your energy allows, but listen to your body and avoid pushing too hard too soon.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Dealing with a prolonged illness like chronic Q fever can be stressful and may lead to anxiety or depression. It is important to talk to your doctor if you feel overwhelmed. Support from friends, family, or a counsellor can help.

Prevention

Yes, by reducing exposure to the bacteria. People who work with livestock should use protective equipment (gloves, masks) when handling animals or their products. Pasteurising milk kills the bacteria.

Vaccines

A vaccine for Q fever is available in some countries (like Australia) for people at high risk, such as abattoir workers. It is not routinely recommended in the UK, but your doctor can advise if you are at high risk.

Screening programmes

Routine screening is not recommended for the general public. In high-risk occupations, some employers may offer blood tests to check for past infection.

Complications

If left untreated

• Chronic Q fever, which can last for years and cause serious problems
• Heart valve infection (endocarditis), which can damage the heart
• Liver inflammation (hepatitis)
• Bone infections (osteomyelitis)

Long-term outlook

With proper treatment, most people with acute Q fever recover completely. Chronic Q fever is serious but can be managed with long-term antibiotics. Regular follow-up is important to prevent complications. Most people who receive timely care do very well.

Find support

International organisations

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Q Fever ↗
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Q Fever ↗

Local organisations

• NHS – Q Fever ↗ · United Kingdom
• Health Protection Scotland – Q Fever ↗ · Scotland

Helplines

External links open third-party websites. Ruqelo Health is not responsible for external content. Listing an organisation does not imply endorsement.