Q fever
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Bacterial infection from farm animals
- Often causes flu-like symptoms
- Can be serious for pregnant women or those with weak immune systems
- Treated with antibiotics
- Prevention involves hygiene around animals
Overview
Q fever is a bacterial infection caused by Coxiella burnetii, typically spread from infected farm animals such as sheep, cattle, and goats. It is most commonly transmitted through close contact with these animals or their products. While many people infected with Q fever experience no symptoms or only mild, flu-like illness that resolves on its own, it can lead to more serious complications in certain individuals. These complications can include severe heart problems, especially in those with pre-existing conditions. Management often involves supportive care, but antibiotics may be prescribed for more severe cases or for individuals at higher risk of complications. Prevention focuses on hygiene and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals or their bodily fluids.
Signs and Symptoms
- High temperature
- Aching muscles
- Tiredness
- Feeling sick
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands
Things That Increase the Risk
- Close contact with farm animals
- Working as a farmer, vet, or abattoir worker
- Drinking unpasteurised milk
- Pregnancy
- Weakened immune system
- Heart valve disease
Diagnosis
- Doctor evaluation based on symptoms
- Blood test to detect infection
- Further tests for baby if pregnant and positive
Treatment & Management
- Antibiotics for 1-2 weeks (if severe or not improving)
- Finish entire course of antibiotics
- Longer antibiotic course for chronic Q fever
- Hospital treatment for complications in chronic cases
Prevention
- Regular hand washing after animal contact
- Clean and cover cuts immediately
- Wear protective clothing (gloves, goggles)
- Safely clean up animal afterbirth
- Avoid helping animals give birth if pregnant
- Do not touch contaminated items (clothes, boots)
- Avoid unpasteurised milk
- Do not eat in animal areas
- Pregnant women: avoid sheep/lambs during lambing season
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Q fever:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
People in contact with farm animals
Prevalence
Rare, but higher risk for animal workers
Diagnosis
Blood test
Treatment
Antibiotics
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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