All volunteers recovered from Q fever with no adverse aftereffects.
Q fever is a disease caused by Coxiella burnetii, bacteria that affect humans and other animals.
"Tell me about this Q fever," Rhyme had asked the pathologist.
Q fever does occur in the United States, but fewer than 200 cases are reported annually.
Doxycycline (100mg twice a day for 2-3 weeks) is the treatment of choice for acute Q fever.
Back at the hospital, treatment for presumed Q fever helps the husband but not the wife.
Q fever is a well recognized cause of abortions in ruminants and in pets.
Q fever has been described as a possible biological weapon.
His later studies helped to produce a vaccine for Q fever, which is treated with antibiotics that shorten its duration.
Looking weak, he said unidentified planes had sprayed his Australian compound with Q fever.