Q fever is caused by bacteria called coxiella burnetii, which is commonly found in livestock such as sheep, cattle and goats. Dogs and cats can also carry the bacteria . In animals, Q fever does not usually cause any symptoms, but can sometimes cause stillbirth (when a baby animal is born dead). The bacteria can leave an infected animal's body in milk, blood , faeces and urine. During birth, it will be present in large amounts in the placenta (afterbirth) of an infected animal, where it is also sent into the air as an aerosol (airborne particles). Once outside the body, the bacteria can live for several months at temperatures of around 15-20C (59-68F). Humans can get Q fever by: drinking infected unpasteurised milk, inhaling airborne particles, and touching anything that has been in contact with infected blood , milk, urine or faeces . The bacteria is transmitted through your mouth, or through cuts in your skin. It cannot be passed from person to person. People most at risk are those who work with animals - farmers and veterinarians who are directly involved in the birth of animals are particularly at risk.
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