Steps to Reduce Risk of Flea-Borne Typhus

CORPUS CHRISTI, TX – Flea-borne Typhus is an illness caused by the bite of an infected flea. Flea-borne typhus is found worldwide in subtropical and tropical climates such as South Texas. Infected fleas can be found on stray or wild animals such as dogs, cats, rats, and opossums near homes.

This year in Nueces County, 46 reported typhus cases in humans have been reported. Symptoms of typhus infection include fever, body aches, muscle pain, loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.

There are simple ways to reduce the risk of infection, including:

• Avoid interaction with wild or stray animals and keep them away from your home, workplace, or recreational areas by taking the following precautions:
  • Store food, including pet food, in tightly sealed rodent-proof containers.
  • Tighten lids on compost and trash cans to discourage animals from visiting.
  • Remove any brush, rock piles, junk, and clutter from your yard.
  • Seal up holes in your home where rodents can enter.
• Have a flea control plan for your home (including pets). Talk to your veterinarian about recommended year-round flea control products for your pet.
• Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) registered insect repellents on your skin and clothing when spending time outside to repel fleas.
• See your healthcare provider if you develop symptoms after encountering fleas or wild or stray animals.

For more information, media representatives can contact Health District Public Information Officer Brittany Claramunt at 361-826-7232 or email brittanyc4@cctexas.com.