The Pasadena Public Health Department has reported an elevated number of typhus fever infections in the city compared to previous years. As of May, eight Pasadena residents have been diagnosed with the disease, which is spread to humans by infected fleas primarily carried by feral cats and opossums, as well as by infected fleas carried by pet dogs and cats allowed outside.

“Generally, one to five cases are reported in Pasadena per year, and most cases occur in the summer or fall,” said Lisa Derderian, Pasadena Public Information Officer. “However, in 2024, eight Pasadena residents have already been reported with typhus fever.”