Typhus Prevention Methods

Use Insect Repellent

Eliminating the carriers and source of the bacteria that cause typhus is one of the main methods of prevention. Individuals should perform regular checks for insects that carry typhus and wear protective clothing whenever they are in an area with a risk for typhus or that had recent outbreaks. Using insect repellent for body louse control and applying it to clothing is also quite helpful.

The application procedure for treating one or more individuals is called the dusting technique. Widespread infestation usually requires repeated applications of insecticide to everyone in the area. This treatment is not recommended for individuals with skin conditions or open wounds. Patients with a louse infestation who were exposed to typhus fever will need to be observed for at least fifteen days after application of an insecticide. One thorough treatment of insecticide should be enough, but retreatments may be necessary for persistent infestations. The process is easy, inexpensive and is good for at least six weeks regardless of frequent laundering.

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Spray Flea-Control Products

Individuals should also consider spraying flea-control products to decrease their risk of typhus by avoiding direct contact with fleas. There are approximately three hundred cases of flea-borne typhus every year in the United States. Flea-borne typhus is always present in certain parts of California like Orange County and Los Angeles. Infected fleas can spread the typhus bacteria to humans and their pet cats and dogs. The fleas become infected from feeding on rats, opossums, or other mammals carrying the bacteria. Cat fleas and rat fleas are most frequently linked to disease transmission. Pet owners should spray flea-control products on their cats and dogs regularly, and keep them indoors as much as possible. Wild animals should be kept away from the home whenever possible.

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