Treatment:

The cornerstone of treatment for Q fever is antibiotic therapy. For acute Q fever (early stage) doxycycline is the recommended agent. For chronic Q fever, a combination of doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine is frequently used.

Expectations (prognosis):

The prognosis for people who get treatment in the early stages of Q fever is generally good. Chronic Q fever requires prolonged treatment with antibiotics and requires frequent monitoring for relapses.

Complications:

• Endocarditis
• Long-term hepatitis and liver problems
• Encephalitis

Calling your health care provider:

Notify your medical provider if you develop the above mentioned symptoms, in particular if you have a compatible exposure history. While there are many different illnesses that can cause similar symptoms, you may need to be evaluated for the possibility of Q fever.