• This is an infection resulting from exposure to rats.  Rat bite is the most common form of transmission, but other rat-contaminated substances can also transfer the disease to humans.
• Rarely, other animals may serve as carriers of the infectious agent.

• Often occur within one week
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Sore throat
• Muscle aches
• Joint pains
• Rash often develops in the hands and feet.
• Sodoku defines an open-crusted sore that develops around the bite.  The infectious agent in this case is the Spirillum minus.
• Infection often resolves on its own without treatment.
• Mild symptoms may periodically return for months if left untreated.

• Streptobacillus moniliformis and Spirillum minus are organisms that can cause rat bite fever.

- May include blood tests, coughed-up phlegm, or urine samples to rule out other types.

• Rats and rodents
• Animal handlers
• Veterinarians
• Laboratory workers
  

• In some cases, antibiotics are prescribed (e.g., penicillin).
• Tylenol for pain and fever
• Fluid and rest as needed
• Update your tetanus vaccination
• After a bite, clean the area with soap and water. 
• Rabies infection may also occur from rat bites.  Rabies is a fatal disease if not treated.  See the section on Rabies for a more detailed explanation.
  

• Contact your doctor immediately.
  

• Other infections
• Rabies (mild form)
• Q Fever -- exposure to farm animals