Flea-Borne Typhus Cases Surge in Los Angeles

The 'Victorian disease' is hospitalizing 90% of those infected

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:51pm

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A highly detailed, translucent X-ray photograph showing the intricate internal structure of a flea, with its ghostly silhouette and glowing skeletal features against a dark background, conceptually representing the hidden threat of flea-borne diseases.An X-ray view of a flea's anatomy exposes the potential danger these tiny pests can pose as vectors for the resurgent flea-borne typhus outbreak.Los Angeles Today

Flea-borne typhus, a highly contagious bacterial illness, is raising alarm across Los Angeles County as officials report a sharp rise in cases this year. In 2025 alone, at least 220 infections were confirmed in L.A., already surpassing the previous year's total of 187, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Roughly 90 percent of infected patients end up hospitalized.

Why it matters

Typhus is sometimes known as 'famine fever,' 'jail fever,' or 'war fever' because it often proliferates during times of crisis. The disease is transmitted through infected fleas, often carried by animals such as rats and opossums, and can easily go unnoticed at first as animals carrying infected fleas typically show no signs of illness.

The details

The disease is transmitted through infected fleas, often carried by animals such as rats and opossums. Humans can become infected when flea feces enter the body through small cuts or scrapes—or even by rubbing the eyes after contact. Pets can unknowingly bring infected fleas into the home, acting as a bridge between wildlife and humans. Symptoms don't appear immediately and can take up to two weeks after exposure for people to start feeling sick—often beginning with fever, chills, body aches, and a rash. In more serious cases, patients can develop a cough, gastrointestinal issues, and neurological symptoms, such as confusion.

  • In 2025 alone, at least 220 infections were confirmed in L.A., already surpassing the previous year's total of 187.
  • In 2025, officials warned that cases were rising in Texas as well.

The players

Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

The government agency that reported the sharp rise in flea-borne typhus cases in Los Angeles County.

Dr. Aiman Halai

A medical epidemiologist with the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health who spoke about the increasing typhus cases in the area.

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What they’re saying

“These cases have been rising year after year. They're occurring in all areas of our county.”

— Dr. Aiman Halai, Medical Epidemiologist, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

“Some patients can develop illnesses where multiple organ systems are involved— and really can result in death.”

— Dr. Aiman Halai, Medical Epidemiologist, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

What’s next

Health officials are urging residents to take prevention seriously, starting with their furry companions. Flea control methods such as topical treatments, oral medications, and flea collars can help disrupt the flea life cycle and reduce the risk of transmission. Residents are also advised to keep outdoor spaces tidy to avoid attracting rodents and other wildlife that carry infected fleas.

The takeaway

The rapid rise in flea-borne typhus cases in Los Angeles highlights the need for increased awareness and proactive measures to combat this 'Victorian disease' that can have severe health consequences. With proper prevention and early treatment, the spread of this highly contagious illness can be mitigated.