Control of human Q fever by vaccination: the journey to Q-VAX and beyond

Current vaccine development efforts encompass diverse and innovative approaches; however, studies with basic vaccines (e.g., whole cell inactivated) continue to inform these efforts. Perhaps the world's most effective and durable human vaccine, the query (Q) fever vaccine known as Q-VAX, can trigger a severe post-vaccination hypersensitivity reaction, precluding its widespread deployment. The history of Q fever vaccine development serves as a rich example of the power of scientific collaboration, elegant experimentation, and the study of adverse post-vaccination events. Here, we review the history of Q fever vaccine development, profiling seminal studies while also relating this information to modern vaccine development efforts.