Multiplex serology for Streptobacillus moniliformis and other 'rat bite fever-like' microorganisms for seroprevalence studies in rodents.

ABSTRACT: Rat bite fever (RBF) is a zoonotic disease caused primarily by Streptobacillus (S.) moniliformis. Norway or brown rats (Rattus [R.] norvegicus) are the natural host for S. moniliformis and carry the bacterium in the nasopharynx without clinical disease. Transmission to humans often occurs through rat bites or scratches, but also through contact with the excreta of infected rats. Although human infections with S. moniliformis occur worldwide, they are rarely diagnosed. For decades, S. moniliformis was the only known member of the genus Streptobacillus. In recent years, however, four additional species were identified, two of which being zoonotic pathogens capable of causing symptoms identical to RBF in humans. The aim of this study was to develop a serological assay covering all known Strep

SUBMITTER: Schmidt K 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12527138 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature