Sunday, April 17, 2011

Rat Bites

Rat-bite fever is a rare disease spread by infected rodents.


Causes:
     Rat-bite fever can be caused by the two different bacteria, Streptobacillus moniliformis or Spirillum minus, both of which are found in the mouths of rodents.
     Most people get rat-bite fever through contact with urine or secretions from the mouth, eye, or nose of an infected animal. This most commonly occurs though a bite, yet some cases may occur simply through contact with these secretions.
     The source of the infection is usually a rat. Other animals that may cause infection include squirrels, weasels, and gerbils.

Symptoms:
     Symptoms depend on the bacteria that caused the infection.

     Symptoms due to Streptobacillus moniliformis may include:
  • Chills
  • Fever
  • Joint pain, redness, or swelling
  • Open sore at the site of the bite
  • Rash -- may be red/purple plaques





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