What are the signs and symptoms?

Symptoms usually occur 2-10 days after exposure to an infected animal. Common symptoms include an abrupt onset of chills and fever, vomiting, pain in the back and joints, headache and muscle pain. By this time, the wound itself has usually already healed. Within 2-4 days after the onset of fever, a rash appears on the hands and feet. One or more large joints may then become swollen, red, and painful.

What should I do if I think I may have Rat-bite fever?

Please contact your health care provider immediately if you have been in contact with a rat and think you may be experiencing symptoms related to Rat-bite fever. Report your rat exposure to your health care provider.

Will my family get Rat-bite fever from me?

No. Rat-bite fever is NOT transmitted from person to person. You can only get infected from an infected animal, typically through a bite or scratch.

Can I get infected by my pet rat?

Yes. Some recent cases in the United States have occurred in people with pet rats.