Typhus Update
September 8, 2008
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has now provided additional test results that confirm the presence of Murine Typhus in our community.
- For 2008 we now have 21 typhus cases confirmed with an additional 12 suspected cases being investigated.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed through test results the presence of Murine Typhus in our community.
- Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department remains in contact with the CDC and is awaiting further lab results.
- The opportunity for exposure exists throughout the community.
Because rodents and other wildlife such as opossums and raccoons are widely distributed, are in close proximity, and may serve as a reservoir for the fleas that transmit murine typhus, we would like to continue to reinforce steps that individuals can take to prevent family members and their pets from contracting the disease.
Flea Control and Prevention- Rodent and wildlife fleas have the potential to spread disease, and it is important to control them both inside and outside your home, especially in combination with any rodent control measures. Limit your exposure by avoiding areas that may be infested with fleas and wearing heavy clothing (long sleeved shirts, long pants, socks and shoes) and use insect repellents containing DEET. Contact a commercial pest control company or use products specifically labeled for flea control and follow the label directions carefully. Thoroughly vacuum carpets and furniture to remove flea eggs, larvae, pupae and adults before any flea control product is applied. Use disposable vacuum bags and place them in a plastic bag before discarding in the trash. Consult your veterinarian regarding oral and topical medications used for flea control and make sure all household pets are treated.
Inspection– Make a thorough inspection of your property and look for areas and conditions that are or could be providing entry, feeding opportunities and shelter for rodent and wildlife nesting.
Identification- Identify rodent and wildlife signs that include droppings, damage to goods or structures, rub or grease marks, runways, tracks, burrows, odors and sightings of live or dead rodents.
Sanitation- Removal of food and water sources is a key component for successful rodent and wildlife control. Good sanitation practices also include removal of woodpiles, tall weeds and grass, junk vehicles, old equipment and anything else that does or could provide rodent and wildlife harborage in the environment.
Rodent and Wildlife Proofing- Exclusion is the most effective and permanent method of rodent and wildlife control. Locate openings of ½ inch or more in all structures and eliminate them with rat and wildlife proofing materials such as steel wool, sheet metal, and heavy gauge hardware cloth or spray plastic foam that expands and hardens to seal around pipes and other small openings.
Baiting and Trapping- Consult a pest control professional for guidance. Depending on the circumstances and the extent of the infestation, baiting, trapping, or a combination of both may be the preferred method of rodent and wildlife control. Baiting involves the use of ready-to-use baits containing an anticoagulant poison. When using rodent baits, they should be kept out of reach of children, pets and wildlife. Trapping is another method of extermination and includes the use of live traps, snap traps and glue boards. When treating home areas for rat and wildlife infestations, owners need to treat the same areas for fleas at the same time. This is especially important as rodents and wildlife are removed from the environment, as remaining fleas may be more likely to bite humans in those circumstances. Areas where rodents and wildlife are found should be treated with insecticides that kill fleas. If you treat your home yourself, you may purchase insecticides (such as but not limited to permethrin- or pyrethrin-based premise sprays, foggers, or granules) to treat infested areas. Follow all label guidelines carefully for use. Also be sure to treat your pets (cats, dogs) for fleas at the same time, using approved products and following label recommendations.
Rodent and Vector Information
Austin-Travis County Rodent and Vector Information line: (512) 972-5692
http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/health/downloads/TAESRodent_Control_Handout.pdf
Department of State Health Services- Typhus Information
http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/idcu/disease/murine_typhus/information/
Philip Huang, M.D., M.P.H.
Medical Director/Health Authority
Austin Travis County Health and Human Services Department
