08/08/25 Public Health Education Topic: Q Fever

Per CDC

Key points

• Symptoms of Q fever can be mild or severe.

• There is not a vaccine to prevent Q fever available for use in the United States.

• Your healthcare provider may order certain blood tests if you are suspected to have Q fever.

• Most people who have Q fever will recover without antibiotics, but for symptomatic patients, doxycycline is the recommended antibiotic for treatment of Q fever.

Overview:

Q fever is a disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii.

These bacteria naturally infect some animals, such as goats, sheep, and cows. These bacteria are found in the birth products (i.e. placenta, amniotic fluid), urine, poop, and milk of infected animals.

People can get infected by breathing in dust that has been contaminated by infected animal feces, urine, milk, and birth products. Some people never get sick; however, those who do usually develop flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle pain. Some people develop chronic Q fever after they are infected.

Prevention

• Q fever vaccines are not available in the United States.

• Reduce your risk of getting Q fever by avoiding contact with animals, especially while animals are giving birth. Animals can be infected with Coxiella burnetii and appear healthy.

• Do not consume raw milk or raw milk products.

• If you have been diagnosed with Q fever and have a history of heart valve disease, blood vessel abnormalities, a weakened immune system, or are pregnant, talk to your healthcare provider about your risk for developing chronic Q fever.

To learn more visit: About Q fever | Q Fever | CDC