Health Officials Report Record Number of Flea-Borne Typhus Cases in LA County
Surge in Typhus Cases Reported in Los Angeles County
Los Angeles County is witnessing an unprecedented rise in flea-borne typhus cases, county health officials announced on Thursday.
In 2025, the county recorded 220 cases, a significant increase from 187 in 2024, marking the highest rate in history. Approximately 90% of those affected required hospitalization, with the age range of patients spanning from 1 to 85 years old, according to data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
While cases have emerged throughout the county, officials are specifically investigating three localized outbreaks in Central LA, Santa Monica, and the Willowbrook neighborhood.
Typhus, a bacterial infection transmitted by infected fleas, can enter homes via pets or wildlife, including stray animals and rodents. Importantly, the disease is not transmissible between people.
Symptoms typically surface within one to two weeks of infection, manifesting as fever, headaches, nausea, and rashes. Early diagnosis allows for effective treatment with antibiotics, health officials noted.
Given that animals can appear healthy while carrying infected fleas, officials recommend several preventive measures:
- Utilize flea control products on pets year-round and limit their outdoor exposure.
- Avoid feeding or handling stray animals.
- Ensure that trash is securely stored, blocking potential entry points for pests.
As the county navigates this public health concern, residents are urged to remain vigilant and adopt these precautionary steps.
