Deadly Murine Typhus Found in Texas Cat Fleas

COLLEGE STATION — Texas A&M researchers have detected Rickettsia typhi, the bacterium that causes flea‑borne murine typhus, in cat fleas collected in the Rio Grande Valley, an area already reporting some of the highest human case numbers in the state.

Murine typhus can cause high fever, severe headache, rash, and in rare cases, life‑threatening complications. Human cases continue to rise across South Texas.

Key findings:

• Cat fleas tested positive for R. typhi
• Additional pathogens linked to cat scratch disease also detected
• Flea infestations on pets may increase human exposure risk

Protect your household:

• Use veterinarian‑recommended flea control
• Keep cats indoors to reduce wildlife contact
• Check pets regularly for fleas
• Seek medical care if you develop fever or rash after flea bites

Texas remains one of the few U.S. states where murine typhus is consistently transmitted. Researchers say continued surveillance is critical as warming temperatures and rising stray‑cat populations increase risk.