The City of Long Beach's Department of Health and Human Services has found itself grappling with an uptick in flea-borne typhus cases this year, a bacterial disease typically spread through insect vectors, such as fleas from rats, opossums, and feral cats. Symptoms of typhus include high fever, headache, chills, and a distinctive rash, but fortunately, it's a disease that can be effectively treated with antibiotics. The City's Health Department is urging residents to take certain precautions to reduce exposure.
As of the end of July, there had been 20 reported cases in Long Beach – that's up from 12 at the same point last year. With an average of 20 instances typically reported annually, the city is on track to potentially surpass a record set in 2021 when 28 cases were logged in a single year. The majority of the cases this year required hospitalization, though all patients have recovered, according to a report released by the city.
Long Beach health officials are actively working to address the outbreak through disease surveillance, investigating cases, and coordinating with local healthcare providers. Their Vector Control Program is stepping up efforts, too, providing assessments and education in communities impacted by the disease. With typhus being a year-round threat, although more prevalent in the warmer months, public education on prevention is also being amped up.
Preventative steps suggested by the Health Department include keeping pets indoors and on flea control medications, refraining from feeding or interacting with potential wild animal carriers, clearing overgrown greenery from properties, covering trash bins, and sealing homes against animal encroachment. The community is also encouraged to report any dead animals they encounter to Long Beach Animal Care Services. These measures, along with an awareness campaign, aim to help stem the spread of typhus infections.
For those seeking more information on how to protect themselves and their families from typhus, the city has set up resources on its website and invites the public to follow its Health Department on social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram, or reach out directly via email at [email protected]. For direct inquiries, Jennifer A. Gonzalez, Acting Public Information Officer for the city's Health Department, is available at 562.570.4290 or via email at [email protected].
