Tips for Preventing Typhus

It begins with a flea bite. When a person scratches the itch spot where the insect was feeding, bacteria-laden droplets from the flea enters the skin causing an infection. The result is a serious, yet treatable disease known as typhus. While typhus is common in warm coastal regions such as south Texas-it is not commonly found in the Austin area. However, typhus can come in many forms and last year Austin/Travis County reported 33 human cases. Thus far for 2009, Austin/Travis County has confirmed one case of human typhus. To promote awareness and prevention of typhus, the Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department offers the following information and tips.

All types of typhus cause similar symptoms such as a high fever, headache, body aches and pains. In some cases, a blotchy rash may occur on the chest, arms and/or legs. This disease is not spread from person to person. The illness seldom lasts more than 2 weeks and is treatable with antibiotics.

The best way to prevent typhus is to use effective and safe flea control measures to ensure your pets, yard and home is flea free. It's also important to eliminate food sources that might attract wild animals to your neighborhood and keep your yard clear of heavy undergrowth and debris that might serve as a nesting place for animals. Additionally, you can limit your exposure by avoiding places that may be infested with ticks/fleas and wearing heavy clothing (long sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes) and using insect repellants containing DEET. More information on typhus can be found on the Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department's website at http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/health/news_rickettsiae.htm.