Q Fever (aka: Query or Queensland Fever) is a disease that is common among ruminant farm animals. It is caused by the bacteria. Coxiella burnetti. It can be spread to other animals and to humans through milk, feces, urine and birth products of animals that are infected. It is a serious, but not deadly, disease that does not usually produce symptoms but can cause miscarriage in pregnant animals and pregnant women. For this reason, it's important to prevent spread by exercising strict hygiene precautions when handling animals, cleaning stalls and paddocks and assisting with births. Always pasteurize milk. Never drink unpasteurized milk.