Los Angeles Rat Exterminator

Los Angeles County experiences an ongoing presence of flea-borne typhus, a disease carried by fleas that live on animals like rats, opossums, and cats. The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LAC DPH) issues regular reports and advisories on the matter.

According to the LAC DPH, the number of flea-borne typhus cases has been on the rise. In 2022, the county reported a record high of 171 cases. This trend has continued, and the county consistently reports cases each year. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, and rash. While the disease is treatable with antibiotics, it can cause severe illness if not addressed.

Official Reports and Articles

 Here are links to official sources and articles that confirm these cases:

• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health - Typhus Fever Page: This is the primary source for information, providing data, prevention tips, and updates on typhus in the county.

  • http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/acd/VectorTyphus.htm

• 2023 Health Advisory: This advisory from the LAC DPH warns about the increase in flea-borne typhus cases and provides guidance to medical professionals.

  • http://publichealth.lacounty.gov/han/docs/2023/Flea-BorneTyphus HAN 10.25.23.pdf

While less common, other rodent-borne diseases like hantavirus and leptospirosis are also monitored, though widespread outbreaks in the immediate Los Angeles area are rare. The primary and most consistently reported threat remains flea-borne typhus.