Flea-Borne Typhus Is Increasing, 3 Deaths in LA County

Flea-Borne Typhus Is Increasing, 3 Deaths in LA County

Flea-Borne Typhus Cases Rise in Los Angeles, Highlights Serious Complications

Flea-Borne Typhus

Los Angeles County has witnessed a significant rise in flea-borne typhus cases, with 171 reported cases and three deaths in 2022, according to health officials. This comes as a stark contrast to the 31 cases reported in 2010, indicating the widespread spread of the disease by fleas in the California city. While many infected individuals remain unaware of their illness, those with underlying medical conditions are susceptible to severe complications or even death, as noted by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dr. Jemma Alarcon, a CDC epidemic intelligence service officer stationed in Los Angeles and one of the authors of the report, explained that flea-borne typhus can cause various complications such as sepsis, fevers, and liver issues, although the precise mechanism is still not completely understood. She emphasized that a majority of people experience either no symptoms or mild disease, often mistaking it for a simple headache. However, in this instance, the flea-borne typhus had a significant impact on the patients, affecting their heart, immune system, and causing sepsis and blood issues.

Dr. Umme-Aiman Halai, a report co-author from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, expressed concern over the increasing number of fleas infected with the disease on animals that come into human contact. Several factors contribute to this rise, including population expansion into suburban areas, increased interaction with wildlife, and the absence of effective rodent control programs.

While the exact cause of the increase in flea-borne typhus cases remains speculative, global warming has been suggested as a potential factor. However, regardless of the underlying reason, experts agree that doctors need to be aware of this changing landscape. Dr. Bruce Hirsch, an infectious disease specialist, emphasized the need to include flea-borne typhus on the list of potential complications for individuals dealing with other health conditions.

The report detailed three cases where flea-borne typhus resulted in death. The patients were a 68-year-old man with lymph node disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity; a 49-year-old woman with feral cats in her backyard; and a 71-year-old man with a compromised immune system living in a homeless encampment. It is worth noting that the patients’ ethnic backgrounds are not relevant but merely a reflection of the population in Los Angeles.

Flea-borne typhus is caused by the bacteria Rickettsia typhi, which is transmitted through contact with fleas infected by biting animals like rats, cats, or opossums. The disease can enter the body through flea excrement, which can contaminate wounds, or by inhaling or rubbing the infected feces into the eyes. However, it does not spread from person to person. The disease is found in tropical and subtropical regions globally, including Southern California, Texas, and Hawaii.

Recently, a man in Texas lost his hands and part of his feet due to a severe case of typhus, leading to septic shock. Symptoms typically appear within two weeks after contact with infected fleas or their feces and may include fever, chills, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cough, and a rash that typically occurs around the fifth day of illness. While most people recover completely without treatment, severe cases can cause organ damage to the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

Dr. Marc Siegel, an infectious disease expert, voiced concern about the growing population of rodents and rats in Los Angeles, as they are carriers of fleas responsible for spreading typhus. He stressed the importance of early diagnosis and treatment since the disease’s symptoms can often be mistaken for other illnesses.

To protect oneself, the researchers recommended controlling fleas on pets and avoiding contact with animals likely to carry the infestation. Early detection and treatment with doxycycline, an antibiotic, can effectively treat typhus.

Overall, the rising cases of flea-borne typhus in Los Angeles highlight the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals and individuals alike. By taking necessary precautions and remaining vigilant, the spread of this disease can be curtailed, preventing potential complications and saving lives.

Sources:

  • Jemma Alarcon, MD, epidemic intelligence service officer, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Umme-Aiman Halai, MD, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
  • Marc Siegel, MD, professor, medicine, NYU Langone Medical Center, New York City
  • Bruce Hirsch, MD, infectious disease specialist, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, N.Y.
  • Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, Aug. 4, 2023

Bacterial Infections Slideshow

SLIDESHOW: Bacterial Infections 101: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments


Understanding Flea-Borne Typhus and Its Complications

Flea-borne typhus cases are on the rise in Los Angeles County, with a worrisome increase from merely 31 cases in 2010 to 171 cases and three deaths reported in 2022. The disease is primarily spread by fleas that are infected after biting animals like rats, cats, or opossums. Once bitten, the bacteria responsible for typhus, Rickettsia typhi, can enter the body through flea droppings, leading to illness. Although most infected individuals experience either mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, those with underlying health conditions are at greater risk of serious complications. The disease can adversely affect multiple organs, including the liver, kidneys, heart, lungs, and brain.

The recent report published by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlights the need for increased awareness among healthcare professionals and the general public. While symptoms of flea-borne typhus may include fever, chills, body aches, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, cough, and rash, they can often be mistaken for other illnesses. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to effectively manage the disease and prevent severe complications.

Dr. Jemma Alarcon of the CDC emphasized the importance of healthcare providers considering flea-borne typhus in their differential diagnosis when patients present with compatible symptoms. Dr. Umme-Aiman Halai, a report co-author from the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, expressed concern over the increasing number of fleas infected with the disease on animals that come into human contact. Several factors, such as population expansion into suburban areas, wildlife interaction, and inadequate rodent control programs, contribute to the rise in infected fleas.

Although the exact cause of the increase in flea-borne typhus cases remains speculative, experts discussed the potential influence of global warming. However, regardless of the underlying reason, it is essential for healthcare professionals to adapt to changing epidemiological patterns and for individuals to take necessary precautions. Controlling fleas on pets and avoiding contact with animals likely to carry flea infestation are recommended preventive measures.

In the midst of these discussions, it’s important to highlight three severe cases detailed in the report. A 68-year-old Hispanic man with lymph node disease, type 2 diabetes, and obesity was treated for typhus but later died from a blood disorder and septic shock. The second patient, a 49-year-old Hispanic woman with feral cats in her backyard, suffered cardiac arrest episodes and died from multiple organ failure caused by typhus. The third patient, a 71-year-old Hispanic man living in a homeless encampment, had a compromised immune system and died from septic shock linked to typhus infection.

It’s worth noting that the patients’ ethnic backgrounds are not relevant to the disease’s occurrence and are simply a reflection of Los Angeles’ diverse population.

Dr. Bruce Hirsch, an infectious disease specialist, emphasized the need to be proactive in including flea-borne typhus on the list of potential complications for individuals dealing with other underlying health conditions. Early diagnosis and timely treatment with antibiotics such as doxycycline can be crucial in managing the disease effectively.

Despite the challenges presented by the rising cases, there is optimism for effective control and prevention efforts. By raising awareness, implementing appropriate preventive measures, and ensuring early detection and treatment, the impact of flea-borne typhus can be minimized, and its complications can be avoided. Through concerted efforts, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and individuals in Los Angeles can stem the tide of this concerning trend.

Bacterial Infections Slideshow

SLIDESHOW: Bacterial Infections 101: Types, Symptoms, and Treatments

As a complement to the discussion on flea-borne typhus, this slideshow provides valuable information on bacterial infections, offering insight into various types, symptoms, and treatment options. Understanding the broader context of bacterial infections can help individuals and healthcare providers navigate the complex landscape of infectious diseases and make informed decisions regarding prevention and treatment.

With increased awareness and knowledge, the fight against flea-borne typhus and other bacterial infections becomes more effective, ensuring the well-being of communities and individuals.