Residents in the state of Washington have recently been warned of the threat of Rat Bite Fever report Manhattan pest control experts.  According to reports from The Wenatchee World on December 7, 2012, Rat Bite Fever has affected several people in Chelan, Douglas, and Grant County in Washington.

Rat Bite Fever is an infectious disease that people pick up when they come in contact with infected rodents, their urine, or the secretions from their eyes, nose, or mouth.  Rat Bite Fever is not normally a huge problem in the United States, but the bacteria (Streptobacillus moniliformis or Spirillum minus) should not be discounted when it arises.

Most people who are subjected to Rat Bite Fever receive it via rat exposure, but other animals can be the cause as well.  Squirrels, gerbils and weasels can also carry the bacteria in the mouths.  Other animals can become infected with Rat Bite Fever and may or may not become ill from the bacteria.  Watch for changes in pests such as cat, dogs, or mice.  Any animal can spread Rat Bite Fever regardless if they show symptoms or not!

People who are infected with Rat Bite Fever will experience fever, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, and headaches. Because of the similarities, may people believe that they have the flu when in fact they have Rat Bite Fever.  A rash on the hands and feet commonly occurs five days after exposure.

Rat Bite Fever is not transmitted from person to person contact.  It is transmitted via a bite from an infected animal, droppings, urine, or scratch.  Any items that an infected animal has come in contact with should be carefully discarded so that Rat Bite Fever is not spread. Rat Bite Fever is also spread when water sources are contaminated.