05/14/2026
Los Angeles County has reported a record number of flea-borne typhus cases, with approximately 90% of patients requiring hospitalization. Typhus is a bacterial disease transmitted by infected fleas commonly found on rats, cats, opossums, and occasionally dogs. Symptoms typically appear one to two weeks after a flea bite and may include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, vomiting, and rash. In severe cases, the infection can impact multiple organ systems and can be fatal. To reduce your risk, contact your veterinarian about year-round flea prevention for your pets and avoid contact with stray animals.
