Q fever, Acute

Imported from NNDSS: Q fever, Acute

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Countries Affected
No data
Recent Cases (30d)
0
Active Outbreaks
N/A
Last Updated
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What is Q fever, Acute?

Q fever was first identified in Queensland, Australia, in 1935 by Edward Derrick, who described a mysterious febrile illness among abattoir workers. The causative bacterium, *Coxiella burnetii*, was later isolated and named after Derrick and Frank Macfarlane Burnet. Initially thought to be a virus, its unique characteristics led to its classification as a distinct organism.

Symptoms

  • High fever (often sudden onset)
  • Severe headache
  • Profound fatigue and muscle aches (myalgia)
  • Chills and sweats
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
  • Sometimes pneumonia or hepatitis (less common but possible)

Transmission

The primary route of transmission is the inhalation of aerosolized bacteria, often from contaminated dust or air near infected animals or their birth products (placenta, amniotic fluid). Less common routes include direct contact with infected tissues, consumption of unpasteurized dairy products, or rarely, tick bites. *C. burnetii* is highly resistant and can survive in the environment for extended periods.

Contagious Period: Varies by disease

Prevention

  • Avoid contact with birth products, urine, feces, and placentas of livestock.
  • Practice good hygiene, especially after animal contact.
  • Pasteurize milk before consumption.
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks and gloves in high-risk occupations (e.g., abattoir workers, veterinarians).
  • A vaccine is available in some countries for individuals at high risk of exposure.

Active Outbreaks & Recent Cases

Real-time intelligence from global health monitoring and AI-powered surveillance

Data sources: BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies

No Active Outbreaks Detected

Our AI-powered surveillance hasn't detected significant Q fever, Acute activity in the past 30 days.

Real-time monitoring continues 24/7 across BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ global health agencies

What This Means

Currently, Q fever, Acute case counts are within baseline expectations globally. However, diseases can emerge rapidly, which is why continuous monitoring is critical.

Stay Prepared

Download the Virus Watcher app to get instant alerts if Q fever, Acute activity increases in your region or travel destinations.

Prevention Remains Important

Even without active outbreaks, understanding Q fever, Acute prevention helps protect you and your community:

  • Avoid contact with birth products, urine, feces, and placentas of livestock.
  • Practice good hygiene, especially after animal contact.
  • Pasteurize milk before consumption.
  • Use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks and gloves in high-risk occupations (e.g., abattoir workers, veterinarians).
  • A vaccine is available in some countries for individuals at high risk of exposure.
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Expert Resources & References

Trusted information from leading health organizations

CDC

Official guidance from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

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WHO

Global disease surveillance and guidelines from the World Health Organization

View WHO Resources →

Research

Latest peer-reviewed research and clinical studies

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Medically Reviewed Content

Disease information on Virus Watcher is reviewed by our Chief Epidemiologist, a former CDC lead analyst for FluSight forecasting. Outbreak data is aggregated from verified sources including BEACON, ProMED, WHO, CDC, and 50+ national health agencies. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace professional medical advice.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

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