The CDC has released a health advisory to be alert for Qfever in travelers returning from Iraq (as well as an ongoing outbreak in the Netherlands). Qfever is caused by Coxiella burnetii, which can be inhaled near contaminated animals (usually cattle, sheep, goats). It presents within 2-3 of exposure with fever +/- pneumonia/hepatitis. Serum testing for acute and convalescent antibody titers can confirm the diagnosis, and doxycycline is the treatment of choice. Qfever is a nationally notifiable disease, and more information is available on the CDC website (CDC)
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