Qkoorts

Qkoorts, or Q fever, is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. It is a zoonosis primarily found in livestock such as cattle, sheep and goats, and humans become infected mainly by inhaling contaminated aerosols from birth products, urine, feces or birth fluids. Transmission via unpasteurized dairy products is possible but less common. People who work with livestock or in animal-handling settings are at higher risk.

In humans, most infections are asymptomatic. When symptoms occur, they resemble a flu-like illness with fever, headaches and muscle pains, and may include cough or abdominal pain. Some patients develop pneumonia or hepatitis. The incubation period is typically one to three weeks. Chronic Q fever can develop months to years after exposure, most often as endocarditis in people with preexisting heart valve disease, or as other persistent focal infections; this form requires long-term treatment.

Diagnosis relies on serology and, if needed, molecular testing. Acute infection shows antibodies to phase II antigen, while chronic infection is indicated by phase I antibodies. PCR on blood or tissue can support the diagnosis, especially early in the course.

Treatment for acute Q fever is usually doxycycline for seven to fourteen days. Chronic Q fever requires longer therapy, typically doxycycline combined with another agent such as hydroxychloroquine, for many months. Endocarditis may require surgical evaluation in addition to antibiotics.

Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to infectious material, especially during animal birthing. Protective equipment, good farm hygiene and pasteurization of dairy products help. A human vaccine exists for high-risk groups in some countries (notably Australia) following pre-vaccination screening, but is not widely available elsewhere.