People who wonder "colds" may be surprised to learn that it is not the same as the type of fever they are already familiar with. This disease happens due to infection cased by Coxiella burnetii. This bacterium is found in both humans and in animals like dogs and cats, but it is not a common infection. The infection happens when inhalation occurs. The spore like bacterium can be present in a number of different places.

Q fever can be contacted by inhaling infected milk or bodily fluids. More rarely, the disease can be transmitted by ticks, but this is most commonly seen in dogs rather than in humans. The typical incubation period for this disease is around two or three weeks but it can range anywhere from 9 days to as long as 40 days. Symptoms may start to appear slowly or they may all appear at one time. Some of the Q fever symptoms may include lethargy, stomach pain, dry cough, low grade fever, constant excessive perspiration, pain in the muscles, and pain in the joints.

Some people with Q fever may also notice a sudden loss of appetite. In the worst cases, people with this disease might experience constant chills, dizziness, disorientation, and pronounced confusion. While it is quite rare, it is possible for this disease to progress into atypical pneumonia. The symptoms of atypical pneumonia are very pronounced and are similar to extremely severe flu symptoms. If atypical pneumonia is not treated within the first five days of its development, it can further progress into Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome, also known as ARDS. When ARDS occurs, patients can become gravely ill to the point that it is life threatening.

While quite unusual, some additional results of this type of fever may include hepatitis, jaundice, and liver enlargement. In extremely rare cases, patients may experience Retinal Vasculitis, a severe issue with the retinas in the eyes. The most important thing to realize about this type of fever is that it is typically 100 percent treatable. As long as a patient is treated immediately when symptoms start to emerge, the chances for a full recovery are very good. Only around 10 percent of all cases develop to a point that the condition will be a long term one. Fewer than that end in death. When flu like symptoms occur, it is always essential to see a doctor immediately!