Final answer:
C fever likely refers to Q fever, a zoonotic disease caused by Coxiella burnetii. It typically presents as an acute febrile illness with flu-like symptoms. A healthcare professional would be concerned due to the potential for serious complications and the small infectious dose required.
Step-by-step explanation:
“C fever” most likely refers to Q fever, a zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. This infection primarily affects individuals who have close contact with animals, such as farmers. The disease is usually characterized by an acute febrile illness with symptoms including high fever, headaches, and general malaise. In humans, the primary route of infection is through inhalation of contaminated farmyard aerosols, with an infective dose being very small. Although Q fever typically manifests as an acute condition, a small percentage of patients may develop a chronic form, which can lead to serious complications such as endocarditis.
Why might a healthcare professional be concerned if someone exhibits flu-like symptoms and a high fever? These could be indicative of various infectious diseases, including Q fever, especially when there is exposure to potential sources of infection like raw milk or farmyard environments. The risk is particularly noteworthy for those with occupations that involve contact with livestock, as well as for individuals who consume unpasteurized dairy products.