Rat Bite Fever: Symptoms, Treatment, & Prevention

Rat bite fever is an infectious disease that can be created by two strains of bacteria. The two bacteria involved are streptobacillary RBF and Spirillum Minus. The disease is commonly transmitted to humans by an infected rodent or by eating or drinking contaminated items. If the disease is not treated, then RBF can lead to serious health conditions as well as eventual death.

Transmission of the Disease

There are several ways that people can contract RBF. The most common form of transmission comes in three ways. One is if the individual is bitten or scratched from an infected rodent. Secondly, an individual can contract the disease if they handle a rat that is infected even if not bitten or scratched. Food or drink that is consumed after being contaminated with RBF can also cause the disease in humans.

Signs and Symptoms of RBF

There are several rat bite symptoms that an infected individual will see that will indicate the disease is present. Each type of RBF has its own symptoms. With Streptobacillary RBF, you will have a fever, vomiting, headache, muscle pain, joint pain and rash. Three to ten days after being exposed, an individual will begin to see symptoms. However, symptoms can be delayed as long as three weeks.

With Spirillary RBF, symptoms will include fever, an ulcer around the bite wound (if applicable), swelling near the wound, lymph node swelling and rash. The symptoms of this disease are associated with Haverhill fever.

Are You At Risk?

You may be wondering if you are at risk of developing RBF by being exposed to rats with the disease. If you live in a building that is infested with rats, have a pet rat at home or work in an area that has rats such as a pet store or laboratory, you may be at risk. If you find that rats have moved into your home, they need to be removed to lower your risk of acquiring RBF.

Rats can be removed by contacting wildlife Removal Company. Such companies will provide you with humane removal of the rats and suggest cleanup alternatives to ensure your home is not susceptible to disease or other issues.

Treatment

If you feel that you have been affected by rat bite fever and show symptoms, contact a health professional immediately. Antibiotics will be prescribed and can be effective in curing the disease. Penicillin is the most common form of antibiotic used to treat the disease. If you do not receive treatment you can have an infection set in that will affect the heart, brain, lungs or other internal organs. Such infections can include meningitis, pneumonia, myocarditis, pericarditis and more.

To have your home rid of rats, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. The wildlife removal company has the know-how and experience to take care of your rat infestation needs including humane removal. Reclaim your home from the rats as the creatures are removed and your daily life once again becomes normal. Contact Skedaddle to learn more about the process of removal or to schedule an appointment.

Posted in: animal control,animal control wildlife control,rat bite symptoms