California outbreak of flea-borne typhus infections investigated
Share this @internewscast.com


Health officials in Long Beach are urging residents to take steps to reduce flea exposure and protect public health after confirming a higher-than-average number of flea-borne typhus infections so far this year.

As of July 31, 2025, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has reported 20 confirmed cases of typhus, a significant increase compared to the 12 cases reported during the same period last year. Officials say that if current trends continue, the city may surpass its previous record of 28 annual cases, set in 2021.

Flea-borne typhus is a bacterial disease transmitted to humans through infected fleas, which are typically found on animals such as rats, opossums, and stray or feral cats. The disease is not contagious from person to person.

Common symptoms include high fever, headache, chills, body aches, and rash. While the illness is treatable with antibiotics, early diagnosis is important. Anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with typhus is encouraged to consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and testing.

City health officials noted that 75 percent of this year’s cases required hospitalization, but all affected individuals have since recovered.

Although typhus can occur year-round, most cases are reported during the summer and fall. Health officials say the recent spike underscores the importance of prevention and public education.

To help reduce the risk of infection, the Long Beach Health Department recommends the following actions:

  • Keep pets indoors and treat them regularly with flea control medications
  • Avoid feeding or interacting with wild animals, including rats, opossums, and feral cats
  • Clear overgrown vegetation and clutter around homes
  • Cover trash bins and remove outdoor food sources
  • Seal crawl spaces and openings under homes
  • Report dead animals to Long Beach Animal Care Services at 562-570-7387

The Health Department is continuing to monitor the situation through case investigations and ongoing disease surveillance. It is also coordinating with local healthcare providers and expanding community education efforts in affected neighborhoods. The department’s Vector Control Program is conducting assessments and outreach in areas with confirmed cases.

More information, including prevention tips and updates, is available online or by contacting the Health Department at lbepi@longbeach.gov. Residents can also follow updates on the department’s social media accounts.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like

Spine-Chilling Ghost Stories and Eerie History at the Annual Graveyard Tales

JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL) — The McKinney Center got a little spooky Saturday…

“Woke Fest Champions Workers’ Rights Through Music and Creativity”

JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL) — The drums were beating in Winged Deer…

Trump Addresses Health Rumors, Plays Golf

(The Hill) — On Saturday, President Trump enjoyed a day on the…

Child Safely Rescued from Walking on Hersheypark Monorail Tracks

HERSHEY, Pa. (WHTM) – A child was rescued with the assistance of…

“Tennessee Triumphs in Orange Clash: Vols Defeat Syracuse”

ATLANTA, Ga. (WATE) — The Vols stay perfect in their program record…

Chicago Mayor Initiates Strategy to Resist Immigration Suppression

IE 11 is not supported. For an optimal experience visit our site…

Humans Are Now Employed to Improve AI Generated Content Quality

Brands that have been discovered using AI continue to encounter consumer backlash.…

Report: California Highway Patrol to Provide Security for Kamala Harris

The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has proposed providing security for former Vice…

Transportation Department Withdraws $679 Million from Offshore Wind Initiatives

The U.S. Department of Transportation announced on Friday that it will be…

Dove Hunting Season Begins in September

In Savannah, Georgia, the dove hunting season is scheduled to kick off…

2023 Incident: Man Sentenced for Fatal Accidental Shooting

BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. () — A man has been sentenced for the…

PHOTOS: Car Plows into New Port Richey Home; Residents Claim It’s Happened Thrice in 16 Years

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. — A couple from Pasco County is expressing…