Shiloh
Editor, Senior Moderator
Source: http://www.bigcountryhomepage.com/n...alert-for-rise-in-flea-borne-typhus/872775877
Texas officials issue health alert for rise in flea-borne typhus
Posted: Dec 01, 2017 08:48 AM CST
Updated: Dec 01, 2017 09:01 AM CST
AUSTIN, Texas (KETK) - Texas officials have issued a health alert warning for an increase in flea-borne typhus across the state.
The alert from the Texas Department of State Health Services also outlines precautions people can take to prevent contracting the disease.
More than 2,800 cases were reported in Texas between 2000 and 2016, and more than 400 cases are expected for 2017.
In previous years, typhus was primarily reported from South Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and Central Texas. In 2017, an increase has been noted in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas. The majority of typhus cases occur between May and July, with another peak in December and January. Typhus can occur in any age group, but over 25 percent of cases are reported among those between 6-15 years of age.
Flea-borne typhus is often mild, though more than 60 percent of reported cases are hospitalized, according to the DHSH. Since 2003, eight people have died from the disease. When left untreated, the illness can cause organ damage...
Texas officials issue health alert for rise in flea-borne typhus
Posted: Dec 01, 2017 08:48 AM CST
Updated: Dec 01, 2017 09:01 AM CST
AUSTIN, Texas (KETK) - Texas officials have issued a health alert warning for an increase in flea-borne typhus across the state.
The alert from the Texas Department of State Health Services also outlines precautions people can take to prevent contracting the disease.
More than 2,800 cases were reported in Texas between 2000 and 2016, and more than 400 cases are expected for 2017.
In previous years, typhus was primarily reported from South Texas, along the Gulf Coast, and Central Texas. In 2017, an increase has been noted in the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas. The majority of typhus cases occur between May and July, with another peak in December and January. Typhus can occur in any age group, but over 25 percent of cases are reported among those between 6-15 years of age.
Flea-borne typhus is often mild, though more than 60 percent of reported cases are hospitalized, according to the DHSH. Since 2003, eight people have died from the disease. When left untreated, the illness can cause organ damage...