Flea-Borne Typhus (Photo – lacounty)
Los Angeles County is experiencing its highest-ever number of flea-borne typhus infections, with health officials reporting 220 cases so far in 2025, a sharp rise from the 187 cases recorded in 2024 and part of a continuing upward trend.
By News Desk
According to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, nearly 90 percent of infected individuals required hospitalization, underscoring the severity of the disease and the urgent need for prevention.
Health officials warn that most exposures occur in and around the home, often when infected fleas hitch a ride indoors on pets or other animals. Fleas capable of spreading typhus are commonly found on stray animals, rodents, and wildlife such as opossums.
Three localized outbreaks have already been investigated this year in Central Los Angeles City, the City of Santa Monica, and the unincorporated community of Willowbrook in South Los Angeles County.
“Flea-borne typhus can cause serious illness, but it is preventable with simple steps,” said Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer. “With cases at an all-time high and most requiring hospitalization, it’s critical that people take simple steps now, such as routinely using flea control on their pets, avoiding contact with stray animals, and preventing wildlife from living in or around their homes.”
Who Is at Risk?
In 2025, cases have been identified in residents ages 1 to 85, demonstrating that people of all ages are vulnerable. Because animals carrying infected fleas often appear healthy, many people may not realize they are at risk of exposure.
What Is Flea-Borne Typhus?
Flea-borne typhus is an acute febrile bacterial infection caused by Rickettsia typhi. It is not spread from person to person. Infection occurs when bacteria from flea dirt (feces) enter the body through scratches, cuts, or contact with the eyes.
In Los Angeles County, infected fleas are most commonly found on rats, free-roaming cats, and opossums. Pets that spend time outdoors can bring fleas inside, exposing household members.
Symptoms typically appear 1–2 weeks after infection and may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Rash
- Body aches
- Nausea or vomiting
The disease is treatable with antibiotics, and early diagnosis significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
Public Health Recommendations
Officials urge residents to take immediate steps to reduce exposure:
Protect Pets
- Use flea control products year-round
- Keep pets indoors when possible
Avoid Stray or Wild Animals
- Do not feed or handle free-roaming animals
- Keep pet food indoors
Maintain Your Property
- Remove yard debris and trim overgrown vegetation
- Store trash in containers with tight-fitting lids
- Seal crawl spaces and block openings where animals may enter
Personal Protection
- Use EPA-registered insect repellents labeled for flea protection
Report Concerns
- Contact local animal control if stray animals, rodents, or opossums are present near your home
Know the Symptoms
Anyone experiencing fever, chills, headache, or rash—especially after possible exposure to fleas or animals, should seek medical care promptly.
For more information on flea-borne typhus and prevention, visit ph.lacounty.gov/Typhus.
Leave a Reply