The Pasadena Public Health Department has reported a rise in typhus cases in the city and urges the public to take precautions to prevent further spread.
Typhus fever is a disease caused by bacteria that are spread to humans by fleas, lice and chiggers. It can cause high fever, chills, headache and rash.
Pasadena typically sees one to five typhus cases every year, with most of them occurring in the summer or fall. However, as of May this year, eight residents have reported typhus fever, city officials said Thursday, June 13. All patients were treated and have since recovered.
Since infected fleas are primarily carried by feral cats and opossums in the city, people who frequently interact with these animals are at risk of infection, officials warn. Pets kept outside can also come into contact with infected fleas, potentially exposing their owners.
Although typhus is treatable with antibiotics and generally has a good recovery rate, three deaths from typhus were reported in Los Angeles County last year. Pets and animals do not get sick from typhus.
To prevent the spread of typhus, residents are advised to take the following actions:
Clear yard debris and trim overgrown vegetation to deter wild animals like feral cats and opossums
Avoid leaving pet food outside
Avoid feeding or providing water to wild animals
Ensure garbage containers are securely covered
Seal any openings and crawl spaces under the home
Regularly administer flea control medication to pet dogs and cats
Typhus is diagnosed through clinical symptoms and a blood test. Local health providers must report any Pasadena residents with suspected or confirmed typhus diagnosis within one working day to the Pasadena Public Health Department at (626) 744-6089 Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or call (626) 744-6043 after hours.
For more information, please visit: San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District:https://www.sgvmosquito.org/fleas-and-flea-borne-typhus; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: https://www.cdc.gov/typhus/index.html; and Los Angeles County Department of Public Health: http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/vectortyphus.htm.
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