Haverhill Fever

Seeking medical attention is important when fever appears along with joint pain and a skin rash after a rodent bite, since these can be signs of Haverhill fever, a bacterial infection transmitted mainly by ingesting contaminated food or water or by contact with rats.

Common symptoms: It usually presents with fever that comes and goes, chills, muscle and joint pain, as well as rashes on the hands, feet, or other areas.

Common causes: It is associated with a bacterium present in some rodents and is related to exposure to these animals or to products contaminated by them.

Which specialist treats it? The general practitioner is a good first point of contact to guide the case and refer if needed. In the presence of persistent fever after contact with rodents, the most prudent thing is to seek a timely professional evaluation.