Health & Human services

Typhus

PRESS RELEASE: City of Long Beach Reports Increased Flea-Borne Typhus Infections

Typhus Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• WHAT IS TYPHUS?

  Flea-borne typhus (also called murine typhus) is caused by the bacteria (Rickettsia typhi) and is transmitted by infected fleas, which enter the skin through scratching following a bite or an any cuts or scrapes. Infected fleas can be carried by rats, domestic or community cats, dogs, raccoons and opossums. 

• WHO GETS FLEA-BORNE TYPHUS?

  Typhus can affect people of all ages. Most people do not recall a fleabite, but often have contact with animals such as community cats, opossums, rodents, or pet dogs or cats that can carry these infected fleas in or near their home. Pets and other animals do not become sick from typhus. 

• WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF TYPHUS?

  Symptoms begin within 2 weeks after contact with infected fleas. Signs and symptoms may include: 

  • High fever
  • Headache
  • Chills
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Cough
  • Muscle pain
  • Rash

  See your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of typhus. Your provider can do a blood test to for typhus. 

• HOW DO I KNOW IF I HAVE TYPHUS?

  See your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms of typhus after coming into contact with fleas. Your provider can do a blood test to look for typhus. 

• CAN TYPHUS BE TREATED?

  Flea-borne typhus can be treated with antibiotics. The treatment is most effective when given soon after symptoms begin. 

• HOW CAN TYPHUS BE PREVENTED?

  • Treat your pet cats and dogs regularly with flea control medication 

  • Do not leave food or water outdoors 

  • Clear debris and overgrown vegetation that may harbor wild animals 

  • Do not provide food or water for wild animals, including community cats 

  • Store trash in cans with secure lids 

  • Apply an EPA-registered insect repellent labeled for use against fleas when outdoors 

  • Seal openings and crawl spaces under homes  

• How to Prevent Fleas on Pets

  Reducing or eliminating fleas on pets also reduces the risk of typhus. Additional guidance includes:  

  • Limit outdoor time, keeping pets indoors can help reduce exposure and risk of disease 

  • Stray animals and pets that live outside are more likely to carry or bring fleas inside 

  • Protect your pets from rodents (rats and mice), other stray animals, or wildlife that may carry fleas.  

  • Keep your home and pet’s living space clean to eliminate any flea eggs or larvae. 

  • Consult your veterinarian about actions you can take to prevent fleas on your pet: 

  • • Anti-flea medication (oral or topical)
    • Flea collars
    • Proper pet grooming
    • Inspecting pets for fleas

• WHERE CAN I LEARN MORE ABOUT TYPHUS?

  California Department of Public Health: 
  https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CID/DCDC/Pages/Typhus.aspx 

  Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: 

  https://www.cdc.gov/typhus/about/murine.html