Flea-Borne Typhus Reemerges, Hospitalizations Climb in L.A.
TL;DR
LA County is contending with a rising outbreak of flea-borne typhus, with about 220 infections reported in 2025 and roughly 90% of patients hospitalized. The illness is spread by fleas carried by animals like rats and opossums and can cause fever, body aches, and rashes two weeks after exposure. Prevention centers on flea control for pets, yard cleanliness, avoiding stray wildlife, and seeking early antibiotic treatment, which is usually effective.
- Grim ‘Victorian Disease’ Flea-Borne Typhus Makes Terrifying Comeback in U.S. The Daily Beast
- Flea-borne typhus surges across LA County with 90% of cases requiring hospitalization ABC7 Los Angeles
- Health Officials Warn of Flea-Borne Typhus That Sends 90% of Infected People to the Hospital People.com
- Cases of dangerous disease 'as old as the plague' hit record high in California SFGATE
- Typhus from fleas hits record level in L.A.: Where the hot spots are and how to protect yourself Los Angeles Times
Want the full story? Read the original reporting
Read on The Daily Beast