Health Officials Investigate Unusual Outbreak in Long Beach

As of July 31, 2025, the Long Beach Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed 20 cases of flea-borne typhus, up from 12 during the same period last year. If the trend continues, the city could surpass its 2021 record of 28 annual cases. Flea-borne typhus, transmitted by infected fleas from animals such as rats, opossums, and feral cats, is not spread person-to-person.

Symptoms include fever, headache, chills, body aches, and rash; early diagnosis improves treatment outcomes. About 75% of this year’s cases required hospitalization, though all patients have recovered. Most cases occur in summer and fall, and health officials stress prevention, including keeping pets indoors with flea control, avoiding contact with wild animals, clearing vegetation, sealing home openings, and removing food sources. The Health Department is monitoring cases, working with healthcare providers, and expanding public education, with resources available online and via social media.