Definition of Typhus, urban. of Malaya
Typhus, urban of Malaya: Murine typhus, an acute
infectious disease with fever, headache, and rash, all quite similar
to, but milder than,
epidemic typhus. It is caused by a related microorganism, Rickettsia
typhi (mooseri), transmitted
to humans by rat fleas (Xenopsylla cheopis). The animal reservoir
includes rats, mice and
other rodents. Murine typhus occurs sporadically worldwide but is
more prevalent in
congested rat-infested urban areas.
Also known as endemic typhus,
and rat-flea typhus.
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