Acute query (Q) fever caused by Coxiella burnetii infection can present with various signs and symptoms such as flulike illness, pneumonia, or hepatitis, creating a diagnostic challenge. Patients with previous valve surgery are at a higher risk of developing chronic Q fever endocarditis, several months or years following initial infection despite treatment. Q fever was primarily seen in patients who have contact with farm animals. It is being seen in military or contracted personnel returning from Middle East deployment or in close proximity to a farm. The incidence has increased nearly seven times because it became a nationally reported disease in 1999. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists C. burnetii as a potential bioterrorism agent caused by its inhalation transmission and bacterial resistance to heat and chemicals. Currently, vaccination is not available in the United States. In Australia, vaccination has resulted in a decrease in prevalence.
Q Fever Osteoarticular Infection in Children
