What Is Q Fever?
9. Complications and Patient Education
Some of the complications of Q fever are thrombocytopenia, acute respiratory distress syndrome, endocarditis (in chronic infection and can result in heart failure), reactivation of the disease during a pregnancy, spontaneous abortion, premature labor, increased rate of abortions, chronic fatigue syndrome, and meningoencephalitis.
In Q fever, patient education revolves around deterrence and avoidance of unpasteurized milk, dairy products, exposure to animal birth products, occupational exposure, tick bites, and more. Birth products such as aborted material, fetal membranes, and placentae should be disposed properly. Individuals who work with animals should maintain appropriate precautions when there is potential exposure.
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