Q fever is a zoonotic bacterial infection caused by Coxiella burnetii that is distributed worldwide. It mainly affects people exposed to livestock like cattle, sheep and goats. The bacteria is shed in feces, urine and birthing fluids of infected animals. People typically contract Q fever through inhalation of contaminated dust. The incubation period is usually 2-3 weeks. Clinical symptoms include fever, chills, headache and pneumonia-like illness. Treatment involves prolonged doses of doxycycline. Preventive measures center around pasteurizing milk, sanitary livestock housing and vaccination of at-risk workers.