City of Long Beach Reports Increased Flea-Borne Typhus Infections
The Californer/10322010

Long Beach, CA ~ Long Beach, CA - The City of Long Beach is facing a concerning increase in flea-borne typhus cases this year, according to the Department of Health and Human Services. As of July 31, 2025, there have been 20 reported cases of typhus in the city, compared to only 12 during the same time period last year. This is a significant increase from the average of 20 cases reported annually.

Typhus is a bacterial disease that is spread to humans through infected fleas typically carried by rats, opossums, community cats, and other animals. It cannot be transmitted from person to person. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, chills, body aches/pain, and rash. However, it is treatable with antibiotics and all reported cases in Long Beach have recovered.

The majority of typhus cases occur during the summer and fall months. The recent spike in cases highlights the importance of community awareness and prevention measures. The Health Department urges residents to take precautions such as keeping pets indoors and regularly treating them for flea control medication. They should also avoid feeding or interacting with wild animals and clear overgrown vegetation and clutter around their homes.

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To further prevent typhus infection, residents are advised to cover trash bins and remove outdoor food sources, seal openings and crawl spaces under homes, and report any dead animals to Animal Care Services at 562.570.7387.

The Health Department is actively monitoring the situation through disease surveillance and case investigation. They are also working closely with local healthcare providers to address the issue. The Vector Control Program provides assessments and education to affected neighborhoods in order to mitigate the spread of typhus.

In addition to these efforts, community education initiatives are being expanded to help residents understand the risks associated with typhus and how they can protect themselves. For more information on typhus prevention measures or for any inquiries, residents can visit longbeach.gov/typhus or contact lbepi@longbeach.gov. They can also follow the Health Department on Facebook, X, and Instagram.

Media inquiries can be directed to Jennifer A. Gonzalez, Acting Public Information Officer for the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services, at 562.570.4290 or HE-PublicAffairs@longbeach.gov. The Health Department is committed to addressing this issue and ensuring the safety and well-being of all Long Beach residents.

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