It is a zoonosis (an animal disease that can incidentally communicate to people) that can affect the lungs, liver, heart or other parts of the body.
This is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii, which is frequently found in cattle, sheep, goats and other domestic mammals. The infected animals spread it through the products of childbirth, excrement, milk and urine.
Symptoms occur around 20 days after exposure to the bacteria. In the initial stage, they may include dry cough, fever, headache, joint pain and muscle aches. Other symptoms may include abdominal pain, chest pain, rash and yellow skin (jaundice). Long-term effects may include chills, fatigue, weight loss, night sweats, prolonged fever and/or shortness of breath. Sometimes the only symptom is a prolonged fever that lasts for weeks or months.
The diagnosis is made through clinical questioning, physical examination and additional tests consisting of a blood test for antibodies.
The main treatment is based on the control of symptoms and antibiotic therapy.
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