Flea-typhus up at DTLA, Pasadena

LOS ANGELES CITY CENTER (KABC) –

Public health authorities are investigating an outbreak of typhus flea in downtown Los Angeles and the epidemic levels of the disease in Pasadena.

The disease is not uncommon in Los Angeles County, but there has been a recent outbreak of cases in the downtown area, according to Dr. Muntu Davis, county health officer.

The Pasadena Public Health Department also said in a press release Friday that it was reporting epidemic levels of epidemic typhus this year. Until now, it has been confirmed that 20 residents of Pasadena were suffering from typhus, well above the expected 1 to 5 cases per year.

Typhus is a condition that can cause high fever, chills, headaches, and rashes. It can be treated with antibiotics.

Typhus is caused by a bacterium found in infected fleas that can come from different animals such as cats, rats and opossums.

Pet owners are particularly at risk. The Ministry of Public Health recommends treating pets regularly against fleas.

You can also protect yourself with an insect repellent DEET and away from wild animals.