zaro

What is Q Fever?

Published in Zoonotic Disease 1 min read

Q fever, sometimes referred to by its name in the question as "Q disease," is an illness caused by a specific type of bacteria.

Understanding Q Fever

Based on the information provided, Q fever is a disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. This bacterium is known to naturally infect certain animals.

How Q Fever Spreads

The bacteria responsible for Q fever, Coxiella burnetii, primarily infects animals such as:

  • Goats
  • Sheep
  • Cows

These bacteria are found in various substances from infected animals, making them potential sources of transmission. According to the reference, the bacteria can be found in:

  • Birth products (like the placenta and amniotic fluid)
  • Urine
  • Poop (feces)
  • Milk

Exposure to these materials from infected animals is how humans typically contract Q fever.