A 45-year-old man is evaluated for a 3-day history of fever, myalgia, headache, and nonproductive cough. He works as a large-animal veterinarian. His medical history is unremarkable, and he takes no medications.

Which of the following is the most likely cause of his illness?

A) Bacillus anthracis
B) Coxiella burnetii
C) Chlamydia psittaci
D) Francisella tularensis
E) Yersinia pestis

The 45-year-old man's symptoms and occupation as a large-animal veterinarian suggest that the most likely cause of his illness is Q fever, caused by the bacteria Coxiella burnetii.

Explanation:

The most likely cause of the 45-year-old man's illness, who has a history of fever, myalgia, headache, and nonproductive cough and works as a large-animal veterinarian, is Q fever, which is caused by the bacterium Coxiella burnetii. This zoonotic disease primarily affects individuals with close contact with domesticated livestock, such as cattle, sheep, and goats.

Clinical symptoms of Q fever include high fever, headache, coughing, pneumonia, and malaise. Considering the patient’s occupation and presenting symptoms, Coxiella burnetii is the most likely cause of the illness (Option B). It is important to note that Coxiella burnetii can cause serious complications, such as endocarditis, which require prompt treatment.

Learn more about Q fever here:

https://brainly.com/question/32419196

#SPJ11