Either of two infectious diseases transmitted to humans by the bite of a rat or mouse; general symptoms include fever, headache, malaise, nausea, vomiting, and skin eruption. In the United States, the disease (also called Haverhill fever) is usually caused by Streptobacillus moniliformis and characterized by a rash on the palms and soles, painful joints, and a short (about 2 weeks) duration. In the Far East, the disease (also called sodoku) is usually caused by Spirillum minus and characterized by a rash on the extremities, lymph node enlargement, relapsing fever, and a longer duration. Treatment by penicillin is effective for both forms. Also called spirillum fever.