Question: Q fever is a CDC Category B terrorism threat agent because it is are moderately easy to disseminate; may result in moderate morbidity rates and low mortality rates; and requires specific enhancements of CDC’s diagnostic capacity and enhanced disease surveillance. What is the source for this infection in most cases?
Answer: According to the CDC, Q fever is a disease caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii which is found worldwide. The bacteria naturally infects some animals, such as goats, sheep and cattle. C. burnetii bacteria are found in the birth products (i.e. placenta, amniotic fluid), urine, feces, and milk of infected animals. People can get infected by breathing in dust that has been contaminated by infected animal feces, urine, milk, and birth products. Some people never get sick; however those that do usually develop flu-like symptoms including fever, chills, fatigue, and muscle pain. (https://www.cdc.gov/qfever/; accessed September 2017)