DOH expects typhus cases to continue to rise
Department is closely monitoring cases and mice population

The Department of Health is closely monitoring the rising number of murine typhus cases in the state. While the current number of cases remains small, it is expected that cases will continue to gradually increase and exceed previously observed levels. The number of murine typhus cases reported statewide from March 2002 to today is 12, with 1 case on Oahu, 1 case on Kauai and 10 cases on Maui. On Maui, 8 cases are in Kihei, 1 in Lahaina and 1 in Kahului.

A number of factors are contributing to the increase in reported cases. A dramatic increase in mice in areas of Maui may be contributing with a greater potential for exposure to fleas from infected mice. Greater surveillance activity and higher awareness among physicians and the public from the recent dengue fever outbreak have also likely contributed to greater reporting and testing of typhus cases.

State Epidemiologist Dr. Paul Effler said, "The Department is concerned and is thoroughly investigating all reported cases to determine if there is any indication of a need for additional public health measures. The increase in the number of cases is understandable with the increase in mice we’ve been seeing and our heightened disease surveillance since the dengue fever outbreak."

Fleas from infected rodents spread murine typhus. Symptoms are flu-like and include headache, body aches, fever, nausea, vomiting and rash. Anyone with these symptoms is advised to see a physician. Murine typhus is a bacterial infection that can be treated with antibiotics prescribed by a doctor. The Department has alerted physicians statewide to look for symptoms in patients and have them tested.

The DOH has been advising the public to take precautions and control rodents in and around their homes. Since fleas spread typhus, it is also important to control fleas that may leave dead mice and bite humans. Check traps daily and remove dead mice quickly (seal them in a plastic bag or container and discard). Residents are also advised to take extra precautions when using poisons to control mice, follow manufacturer’s directions carefully and consider any children and pets that may get to the poison.

The Department’s Vector Control staff investigates every suspected case of typhus to determine rodent control needs in areas statewide. Staff responds to calls and provides information and assistance when needed.

The Department has implemented aggressive rodent control measures in open areas identified with significant rodent problems. This includes the use of hundreds of bated traps and the application of rodenticides.

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