LA Typhus Cases Hit Record High: Hotspot Areas Revealed

Los Angeles County is experiencing a record surge in flea-borne typhus cases, with 220 infections reported in 2025. This marks the highest number of cases ever recorded in the county, surpassing the 187 cases reported in 2024, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.

The increase in cases is prompting health officials to warn residents about preventative measures, particularly for pet owners. Approximately 90% of those infected with typhus in 2025 required hospitalization, highlighting the potential severity of the illness.

What is Flea-Borne Typhus?

Flea-borne typhus is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia typhi. Fleas become infected after biting infected animals, such as rats, stray cats, or opossums, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Humans contract the disease when flea feces are rubbed into cuts or scrapes on the skin, or if it enters the eyes.

Symptoms typically appear within one to two weeks after infection and can include fever, headache, rash, and body aches. The disease is treatable with antibiotics, especially when diagnosed early.

Rising Cases Over Time

The number of typhus cases in Los Angeles County has been steadily increasing since 2021, when 141 cases were recorded. Cases rose to 171 in 2022 before decreasing slightly to 124 in 2023. The upward trend resumed in 2024, with 187 cases, ultimately leading to the record high of 220 cases in 2025.

Geographic Hotspots

While cases have been reported throughout the county, three areas are currently being investigated as localized outbreaks: Central Los Angeles City, Santa Monica, and Willowbrook.

Preventative Measures

Health officials are urging residents to take several precautions to prevent flea-borne typhus:

• Use flea control products on pets year-round and keep them indoors as much as possible.
• Avoid contact with stray animals.
• Do not feed or handle stray animals.
• Secure trash containers, blocking any potential entry or hiding points for animals.
• Keep yard landscaping trimmed.
• Close off crawlspaces in homes.

According to Muntu Davis, MD, MPH, Los Angeles County Health Officer, “Flea-borne typhus can cause serious illness, but it is preventable with simple steps.”

Officials also noted that pets or other animals can carry infected fleas indoors, exposing people to the disease within their homes. Infected animals typically do not exhibit signs of illness, and the disease is not spread from person to person.

“Attention pet parents: Los Angeles County is reporting a record number of flea-borne typhus cases. Public health officials are warning pet owners to take precautions for themselves and their four-legged family members.”

Los Angeles County Public Health Department