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LA County is warning about a rise in flea-borne Typhus cases and outbreaks
A magnified left lateral view of a male Oriental rat flea, Xenopsylla cheopis, a species known to spread typhus.
(
James Gathany
/
Courtesy of CDC via Unsplash
)
Topline:
L.A. County Public Health is urging residents and pet owners to take extra precautions in protecting themselves against flea-borne typhus after reporting an uptick in recent cases.
What we know: So far this year, at least 106 cases have been reported — higher than this time last year. In 2024, the county saw a record 187 cases in total. Cases, which typically peak in late summer and fall, have been rising in the county since 2010.
What about clusters? Yes, the department investigated a localized outbreak in Central L.A. and is currently looking into a second outbreak in Santa Monica.
What is Typhus? Typhus is a bacterial disease spread by infected fleas, which are most commonly found on rats, free-roaming cats and opossums. The disease is not spread from person-to-person and is treatable with antibiotics. Symptoms can include high fever, nausea, muscle aches, rash and cough. People who think they have it should talk to their healthcare provider.
What to do: Public health officials recommend residents routinely use flea control products on pets. Other tips are listed through the county’s website.
Go deeper… L.A. County’s warning comes weeks after Long Beach reported a rise in Typhus cases.
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