Skip to main content
A Singapore Government Agency Website How to identify
Official website links end with .gov.sg
Government agencies communicate via .gov.sg websites (e.g. go.gov.sg/open). Trusted websites
Secure websites use HTTPS
Look for a lock () or https:// as an added precaution. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam.

Communicable Diseases Agency

Murine typhus

Murine typhus is a disease that can spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the bacteria Rickettsia typhi.

Last updated 7 November 2025

What is murine typhus? 

Murine typhus is a disease that can spread from animals to humans. It is caused by the bacteria Rickettsia typhi.

How is murine typhus transmitted? 

Murine typhus is transmitted through flea bites from infected fleas, commonly found on rodents.

What are the symptoms of murine typhus? 

Murine typhus is generally a mild infection. Symptoms include: 

  • Fever 

  • Headache 

  • Joint and muscle pain 

  • Rash  

  • Abdominal pain 

  • Nausea and vomiting

What are the risk factors? 

Being exposed to fleas, especially from rodents.

How is murine typhus treated?

Murine typhus is treated with the antibiotic doxycycline as the preferred antibiotic. Patients treated early with doxycyline usually recover quickly. There are alternative antibiotic options for patients in whom doxycycline may be contraindicated.

How to prevent murine typhus? 

Preventive measures include: 

  • Treating clothes with miticidal chemicals (e.g. permethrin).  

  • Applying mite repellent (e.g. containing more than 20% DEET) on skin. 

  • Implementing rodent control and anti-flea measures. 

There is no approved vaccine against murine typhus in Singapore.