Rat Bite Fever has been confirmed in a few Chelan and Douglas County residents. Mary Small with the Chelan-Douglas County Health District says a bite, scratch, droppings or urine from an infected rodent can transmit the disease. Illness develops within three weeks of the exposure and initial symptoms include fever, muscle aches, joint pain, head ache, and vomiting. She says many patients develop a rash on their hands and feet following a fever. Unlike influenza there is no cough associated with the illness and it is easily treated with antibiotics. She says if you have had contact with rodents or other animals that may have contact with rodents, and you have the symptoms of the illness, see your medical provider.
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