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Q Fever makes an appearance
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REGIONAL -- Local health officials are cautioning local residents about the presence of Q Fever in the community, as several patients have been identified and treated through Myrtue Medical Center.
"Recently, several cases of Q Fever have been identified in our area, and we would like to provide some information about the disease and sources of additional information," said Myrtue Medical Center Community Health Director Vickie Gillespie.
Q Fever is caused by bacteria, which can not only be found in the environment but in livestock and wildlife populations. Cattle, sheep and goats are the primary reservoirs of the bacteria.
Cases of Q Fever occur in both the animal and human populations every year in Iowa. Humans can become infected when they breathe in dust contaminated by the bacteria. This typically occurs in barnyards or other areas where dried placental material, birth fluids and animal feces are found.
Approximately 60 percent of people exposed to the bacteria will never get sick. Most patients who do become ill will have mild, flu-like symptoms within two-three weeks of exposure.
Less than one percent can have more serious complications, which most commonly occur in people with heart valve conditions, a weakened immune system or pregnant women.
Symptoms include high fevers, severe headache, general malaise, confusion, sore throat, chills, sweats, cough, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain and chest pain.
The fever can last from one-two weeks, and pneumonia can occur up to 50 percent of the time in patients with Q Fever.
Patients will be treated with antibiotics.
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©The Harlan Tribune 2009
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