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The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is urging residents to take preventive measures amid a rising number of flea-borne typhus cases across the region. Following a localized outbreak earlier this year in Central Los Angeles, officials are now investigating a second outbreak in the City of Santa Monica.
By News Desk
Flea-borne typhus, a disease caused by Rickettsia typhi bacteria and spread by infected fleas, has been on the rise in the county since 2010. In 2024, Los Angeles County reported a record 187 cases. So far in 2025, 106 cases have already been identified—outpacing last year’s numbers for the same period. Health officials anticipate additional cases in the coming months, as infections typically peak in late summer and fall.
“This ongoing increase in flea-borne typhus highlights the importance of taking preventive steps to reduce the risk of infection,” said Dr. Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County Health Officer.
Flea-borne typhus is an acute illness that can cause fever, chills, body aches, and rash. Humans can become infected when flea feces are rubbed into cuts or the eyes. While the disease does not spread from person to person, it is commonly associated with fleas found on rats, free-roaming cats, and opossums. Pets such as dogs and cats that venture outdoors may carry infected fleas into homes, though the animals themselves often show no symptoms.
“Flea-borne typhus is serious, but preventable,” Dr. Davis emphasized. “We urge people to take precautions by using flea control on their pets, avoiding contact with stray animals, and preventing wildlife from living in or near their homes.”
Recommendations to Prevent Flea-Borne Typhus
Control fleas on people and pets:
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents when outdoors.
- Apply routine flea control treatments to pets.
- Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
Avoid attracting wild or stray animals:
- Do not leave pet food or water outdoors.
- Refrain from feeding or touching stray or wild animals.
- Maintain clean yards free of overgrown vegetation and debris.
- Secure trash in tightly sealed containers.
- Block off crawl spaces and seal entry points around the home.
- Report stray animals or signs of rodents to local animal control.
For additional information on flea-borne typhus and how to protect your household, visit the Los Angeles County Public Health website.
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