infectious disease

Health officials in Los Angeles are investigating a flea-borne typhus outbreak in the Wilshire Center neighborhood. The bacterial illness, spread by fleas that often live on rodents, cats and other animals, can cause fever, headache and body aches. Local coverage of the investigation is drawing attention as residents in the area watch for confirmed cases and advice on prevention.

Researchers are highlighting efforts to combat infectious diseases and the growing threat of antibiotic resistance, according to a science news release. Antimicrobial resistance is a major global health concern, as bacteria increasingly evade existing drugs, prompting calls for new treatments and better stewardship of current antibiotics.