A rise in flea-borne typhus cases is a cause for concern say Long Beach Health Department officials, who are advising residents to take steps to avoid exposure to the dangerous disease.

Nearly a dozen cases of flea-borne typhus (murine typhus) have been reported in Long Beach this year alone, up from last year's entire count of nine cases and zero prior to 2006, according to the health department. In addition to a public warning, the 11 new cases prompted a detailed investigation that has led researchers to believe the disease is being spread by fleas on cats, mice, opossums, raccoons and other rodents.

Earlier this year, city officials in Orange County, which has also been experiencing an increase in typhus cases, began rounding up feral cats in an attempt to curb the spread of infection. Chracterized by severe headaches, rashes, high fevers and body aches, symptoms can also include chills, vomiting and confusion. The word typhus comes from the Greek word for smoke or stupor due to the accompanying disorientation noted throughout its long history.

Once considered a deadly disease, typhus is rarely fatal nowadays, although it can result in hospitalization. Public health officials will continue to monitor and test for evidence of flea-borne typhus in areas throughout the city, as well as distribute informational materials to the public, veterinarians and health care providors, according to a statement by the health department.

Endemic to the state of California, flea-borne typhus is here to stay but there are measures that can be taken to prevent it. To stay safe, the health department recommends following these guidelines: