Risk of illness by tick or mosquito bite is discussed frequently, but illness related to flea bite not as much.  But fleas are just as much a risk.

In 2018 a woman in North Park was hospitalized and treated for a rare form of deadly disease called Murine Typhus. Transmitted by flea bite.

Fleas are always looking for a host

We’ve all heard of disease spread by ticks and are warned to take precautions when hiking, around canyons or brush area. But we are never warned about fleas carrying disease.

But if you think about it, fleas feed on blood the same as ticks and mosquitoes. So if ticks and mosquitos can easily spread disease, why not fleas?

Fleas are always looking for a host.  So when your dog or cat goes outside, they easily pick up fleas.

From places like the park, on walks, the beach.  It can be a trip to the groomers, veterinary clinic, just about anywhere another pet OR wild animal may have been.

Fleas spread disease

Fleas don’t only feed on dogs and cats. They feed on wild animals such as rats, opossums, raccoons, etc. So if a flea feeds on an infected animal, it can then transmit disease to you.

The CDC (Center of Disease Control) tracks a growing number of illness and disease transmitted by mosquitos, ticks, and fleas.

Typhus is a disease brought on by fleas.  It’s not a common occurrence, but has been seen in San Diego.

Just recently in 2024 were two reports of bubonic plague. One case reported in Oregon with another following about a month later in New Mexico.

So keep in mind its not just about the itch.

Its about protecting your family and pets not only from parasites, but disease as well.

Be smart, use monthly flea control.