Cases of flea-borne typhus in Long Beach have surged above last year’s level, putting the city on pace for a possible record number of infections and prompting warnings Monday for residents to take precautions.
According to the city Department of Health and Human Services, 20 cases of typhus were recorded in the city as of July 31, up from 12 during the same period last year. Officials said the city typically sees about 20 cases per year, and if the upward trend continues, the city could surpass the 2021 record of 28 cases in a single year.
Of the 20 patients identified so far this year, 75% of them were hospitalized, according to the city.
Typhus is spread to people by infected fleas generally carried by rats, opossums, stray cats and other animals. Symptoms can include fever, headache, chills, body aches and pains and rash. The ailment is treatable with antibiotics.
“While Typhus can occur throughout the year, the majority of the cases occur in the summer and fall months,” Long Beach health officials said in a statement. “The increased observation in recent months highlights the importance of community awareness and prevention.”
The city suggested that residents take preventive steps such as:
— keep pets indoors and treat them regularly for flea control medication;
— avoid feeding or interacting with wild animals (such as rats, opossums or cats);
— clear overgrown vegetation and clutter around homes;
— cover trash bins and remove outdoor food sources;
— seal openings and crawl spaces under homes; and
— report dead animals to Long Beach Animal Care Services at 562-570-7387.