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What we know : So far this year, at least 106 cases have been reported — higher than this time last year when a record 187 cases were identified. Cases, which typically peak in late summer and fall, have been rising in the county since 2010 and .

What about clusters? Yes, the department investigated a localized outbreak in Central L.A. and is currently looking into a second outbreak in Santa Monica.

What is Typhus? Typhus is a bacterial disease spread by infected fleas, which are most commonly found on rats, free-roaming cats and opossums. The disease is not spread from person-to-person and is treatable with antibiotics. Symptoms can include high fever, nausea, muscle aches, rash and cough. People who think they have it should talk to their healthcare provider.

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