Mayo Clinic Care Network Content
Definitions

Q fever


Overview

Q fever is spread to humans by animals, most commonly sheep, goats, and cattle. It's caused by inhaling dust particles contaminated by infected animals. High-risk occupations include farming, veterinary medicine, and animal research.

Symptoms

Symptoms, if any, include fever, cough, nausea, and fatigue.

Treatments

Q fever is treated with the antibiotic doxycycline.