County of Los Angeles
Department of Public Health
Acute Communicable Disease Control
313 N. Figueroa Street, Room 212
Los Angeles, CA 90012
Phone: (213) 240-7941
Fax: (213) 482-4856
E-Mail:acdc2@ph.lacounty.gov
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Acute Communicable Disease Control
Q-Fever
Q-fever is caused by bacteria called Coxiella burnetti. This disease is rarely
seen in Los Angeles County, but local transmission does occur occasionally.
The bacterium is carried by infected cows and goats. You can get Q-fever from inhaling
contaminated dust or air particles close to where cattle and goats are being slaughtered
or giving birth. It is transmitted through the body fluids (such as blood) of these animals.
Veterinarians and slaughterhouse workers are at risk for this disease.
You can also get Q-fever from unpasteurized milk products made from the milk of infected
animals, or consuming undercooked meat of infected animals. Do not drink or eat unpasteurized
milk products and avoid illegal slaughterhouse products.
Q-fever is caused by bacteria called Coxiella burnetti. This disease is rarely
seen in Los Angeles County, but local transmission does occur occasionally.
The bacterium is carried by infected cows and goats. You can get Q-fever from inhaling
contaminated dust or air particles close to where cattle and goats are being slaughtered
or giving birth. It is transmitted through the body fluids (such as blood) of these animals.
Veterinarians and slaughterhouse workers are at risk for this disease.
You can also get Q-fever from unpasteurized milk products made from the milk of infected
animals, or consuming undercooked meat of infected animals. Do not drink or eat unpasteurized
milk products and avoid illegal slaughterhouse products.
