2 cases of typhus in Travis County

TRAVIS COUNTY, Texas (KXAN) - The first reports of typhus in Travis County have been confirmed, and one of the people infected has died, officials said.

The Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department said reports of Typhus seem to be concentrated in the Central and North Central Travis County.

The disease is transferred by bites from fleas and ticks.

Dr. Phil Huang of Austin\Travis County Health and Human Services said the community needs to be alert.

"This is our first death that we've had here, so we're very concerned," Dr.Huang said.

Dr. Huang continued, "It's something preventive measures can help reduce peoples exposure to this."

Symptoms of typhus:

• Headaches
• High fever
• Blotchy rash on chest, arms or legs

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The disease is not spread from person to person. According to health officials, the best way to prevent typhus is safe flea control with pets.

Eliminate food sources that might attract animals to your neighborhood. Avoid areas that may be infested by fleas or ticks.

If you go for a hike, wear long sleeves and pants. Also use insect repellents containing DEET.

If you think you may have typhus, contact your doctor and Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department immediately.

You can contact Austin/Travis County Health and Human Services Department for more information at (512) 972-5555.