Flea-Borne Typhus Surges Across LA County with 90% of Cases Requiring Hospitalization Los Angeles County is facing a significant rise in flea-borne typhus infections, with nearly 90% of patients needing hospitalization. The disease, caused by bacteria spread through infected fleas, has become a public health concern as cases surge across the region. Health officials warn that the outbreak is widespread, affecting both pet owners and individuals without animals. According to data from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, the number of typhus cases has increased dramatically in recent years. In 2025, 220 infections were recorded in the county, up from 187 cases in 2024. Dr. Aiman Halai, a medical epidemiologist with the department, emphasized that the trend of rising cases has continued year after year, with outbreaks occurring in all areas of the county. "These cases have been rising year after year. They're occurring in all areas of our county," Halai stated. Typhus symptoms, which range from mild to severe, typically include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, vomiting, and a rash. These symptoms can appear one to two weeks after a flea bite. Halai explained that while the disease is not transmitted directly from person to person, it can spread through contact with infected fleas that live on rats, stray cats, and possums. "Infected fleas tend to live on rats, free-roaming cats, and possums," she said. "If your dog or cat spends a lot of time outdoors and gets exposed, they don't have to show any signs of illness for you to get sick." The severity of the illness varies, with some patients developing life-threatening complications. Halai noted that severe cases can involve multiple organ systems and may result in death.#los_angeles_county #santa_monica #los_angeles_county_department_of_public_health #dr_aiman_halai #central_los_angeles
