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
Two people were shot near the Santa Monica Pier on Sunday night following a large fight, according to police. The incident occurred around 9 p.m., and authorities stated that a significant altercation involving multiple individuals took place before the gunfire. Law enforcement confirmed that two individuals sustained non-life-threatening gunshot wounds and were hospitalized in stable condition. However, the identities of the injured have not been disclosed publicly. Police advised the public that parts of the pier may have been temporarily restricted during the investigation. Authorities have not released details about any arrests made in connection with the shooting. A spokesperson for the Santa Monica Police Department emphasized that the case remains an active investigation, with additional updates expected as more information becomes available. The incident has prompted local officials to urge the public to stay informed and avoid the affected areas until further notice. No further details about the circumstances leading to the fight or the shooting were provided.#police #incident #santa_monica #santa_monica_pier #santa_monica_police_department
Santa Monica Pier Shooting Leaves 2 Injured After Fight, Police Say Two adults were injured in a shooting Sunday night following a fight between groups on the Santa Monica Pier, according to police. The incident occurred around 9 p.m. when officers responded to a 911 call reporting shots fired at Pier Burger, a location on the pier. Upon arrival, police found a large group engaged in a physical altercation and learned that gunshots had been fired during the conflict. One of the victims was located on the pier and transported to a nearby hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A second individual, who later self-transported to the same hospital, was also treated for injuries. Both victims are adults, though no further details about their condition or identity were provided. Authorities initially closed the entire pier to the public while responding to the scene and conducting an investigation. Portions of the pier remained closed during the overnight investigation. Police did not release any information about a suspect at this time, stating the shooting appears to be an isolated incident tied to the fight between the two groups involved. Santa Monica police detectives are currently investigating the incident, with additional updates expected on Monday. The department’s public information officer, Lt. Lewis Gilmour, confirmed that the shooting was not linked to any broader criminal activity and emphasized that the situation was contained to the immediate altercation. The incident highlights the potential for violence in public spaces, particularly during crowded events. While no arrests have been made, authorities are urging anyone with information to come forward as the investigation continues.#santa_monica_pier #pier_burger #lt_lewis_gilmour #santa_monica_police #santa_monica
