Q fever is generally a self-limiting illness and will clear up without treatment. Antibiotics given during the illness can shorten the period of incapacitation. Tetracycline is the antibiotic of choice and when given during the incubation period may delay the onset of symptoms. Usual dosage is 500 mg every 6 h or doxycycline, 100 mg every 12 h . Antibiotic treatment should be continued for 5-7 days. The disease is remarkably resistant to heat and drying, and is stable under diverse environmental conditions. Vaccines for humans are still in the development stages, although tests have shown promise.