Los Angeles County Reports Record 220 Flea-Borne Typhus Cases in 2025, Prompting Public Health Warnings

Los Angeles County health officials announced a record 220 cases of flea-borne typhus (also known as murine or endemic typhus) in 2025, the highest number ever documented in the county. The increase appears connected to homeless encampments, which attract rats, mice and illness.

This marks a continuation of a multi-year upward trend. In 2024, the county recorded 187 cases-a previous record-with 106 cases reported by late August 2025, already exceeding the same period the prior year. Cases typically peak in late summer and fall, and officials had anticipated additional infections as the season progressed.

Flea-borne typhus is caused by the bacterium Rickettsia typhi. It spreads to humans primarily through contact with infected fleas carried by rodents (such as rats), opossums, stray or outdoor cats, and sometimes pets. Infection usually occurs when a person scratches a flea bite or rubs flea feces into a bite wound, cut, or mucous membranes like the eyes. The disease is not transmitted directly from person to person.

Symptoms generally appear 7–14 days after exposure and can include:High fever, Headache, Chills, Muscle aches, Nausea or vomiting. A rash (often on the chest, sides, or back; it does not always appear and spares the palms and soles)

While many cases are mild, reported infections in Los Angeles County have often been more severe: over the past decade, about 86% of cases required hospitalization. Complications can rarely include meningitis or endocarditis. The illness responds well to antibiotics, with doxycycline as the treatment of choice for both adults and children when started promptly.

Press release from LA County about the increase in typhus cases.

Health officials, including Los Angeles County Health Officer Dr. Muntu Davis, have urged residents to take preventive measures, especially pet owners. Recommendations include:Using veterinarian-recommended flea control products on pets year-round.

Avoiding contact with wild animals and their habitats.

Securing food sources (e.g., keeping garbage tightly sealed and not leaving pet food outdoors) to reduce rodent and flea populations.

Maintaining clean yards and eliminating potential harborage for rodents.

Localized clusters were noted in areas such as Central Los Angeles and Santa Monica during 2025. This appears to be connected to homeless encampments, and the additional rats and fleas they attract.

The rise in cases aligns with a broader increase observed since around 2010. Public health reports link flea-borne typhus to environmental factors that support rodent and flea proliferation, including accumulations of trash and organic debris that attract hosts for fleas. Historical outbreaks in the region, including in downtown Los Angeles areas with high concentrations of unhoused individuals, have highlighted connections between unsanitary conditions, rodent infestations, and disease transmission.

In June 2024, the U.S. Supreme Court's decision in Grants Pass v. Johnson clarified that cities and counties can enforce anti-camping ordinances on public property without violating the Eighth Amendment, even when shelter capacity is limited. This gave local governments greater flexibility to address encampments, though implementation and outcomes have varied across jurisdictions. Los Angeles officials have continued efforts focused on housing, services, and cleanups alongside any enforcement measures.

As of early 2026, county officials continue to emphasize personal and community-level prevention to curb further spread. Residents experiencing compatible symptoms are advised to seek medical care promptly, as early treatment is highly effective.For the latest guidance, refer to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health website or consult a healthcare provider.