Endemic Typhus

Endemic typhus is a bacterial infection caused by Rickettsia typhi, transmitted mainly through fleas that infest rats and other animals. It commonly occurs in areas with poor sanitation where fleas and rodents are prevalent. People infected may experience fever, headache, muscle aches, and rash, typically lasting about a week. The illness spreads when infected fleas bite humans, transferring the bacteria. It is usually treatable with antibiotics, and preventing it involves controlling flea populations and maintaining good sanitation. Endemic typhus is different from epidemic typhus, which is caused by a different bacteria and spreads in crowded, unsanitary conditions.