Q Fever

Q (Query) fever is so-called because for many years its cause was unknown. It is a zoonosis (infection acquired from animals) caused by the organism Coxiella burnetii. Sheep, cattle, and goats are the most common source, but infection in these animals is usually asymptomatic. The organism is however found in the afterbirth and birth fluids, as well as the milk, urine, and faeces of affected animals.