Los Angeles County health officials are warning residents about a flea-borne typhus outbreak in the Mid-Wilshire area.
At least seven cases have been reported in the neighborhood, according to the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. Officials said six people were hospitalized but have since recovered.
Flea-borne typhus is an acute febrile bacterial infection caused by Rickettsia Typhi bacteria, which is spread by infected fleas often found on pets and wildlife.
In the county, health officials said infected fleas often are found on rats, free-roaming cats and opossums.
People infected with typhus typically develop symptoms within one to two weeks, which may include a fever, headache, rash and body aches.
It is the second time health officials have warned about a flea-borne typhus outbreak in the county. Officials issued similar warnings in July when five cases were reported in the Pico-Union area.
Similar outbreaks also have occurred in Santa Monica and the unincorporated neighborhoods of Willowbrook near Compton, health officials said.
Officials say cases of flea-borne typhus have been on the rise since 2010. Last year, the county recorded about 220 cases, the most ever recorded. At least 187 cases were reported in 2024.
Health officials are urging residents to take preventive measures by using flea control year-round on their pets and not feeding stray animals.
Angelenos also should ensure the lids of their trash bins are closed and block any places around their homes where fleas can enter or hide.
