Typhus is an infectious disease caused by bacteria from the genus Rickettsia. It is typically transmitted to humans through bites from infected lice, fleas, or ticks. Symptoms often include fever, headache, rash, and muscle pain. If left untreated, typhus can lead to severe complications. There are different types of typhus, including epidemic typhus, which is spread by body lice, and endemic typhus, transmitted by fleas. Prevention focuses on improving hygiene and controlling pest populations. Treatment usually involves antibiotics, which can effectively reduce the severity of the disease if administered early.