Typhoid Fever
Typhoid fever, commonly called typhoid, is a bacterial infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. Typhoid causes ulcers in the intestines.
Transmission
Typhoid fever is usually spread through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. This can happen when people do not practice proper hand hygiene after using the toilet and then handle food or water.
Symptoms
The symptoms of typhoid fever typically develop 6 to 30 days after exposure to the bacteria. Common symptoms include high fever, weakness, abdominal pain, headache, and a skin rash. Some individuals may also experience vomiting, diarrhea or constipation.
Complications
· With timely and appropriate treatment, the prognosis is generally good. If left untreated, typhoid fever can lead to severe complications:
· Intestinal perforation
· Internal bleeding
· Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
· Inflammation of the heart (myocarditis)
· Pneumonia
· Death
Diagnosis
Diagnosing typhoid fever usually involves blood tests and sometimes a stool culture to identify the presence of the Salmonella Typhi bacterium. A physical examination and a review of a patient's medical history can also help with diagnosis.
Treatment
· Typhoid fever can be treated with a 7 – 14 day antibiotic course. If the complete course of medicines is not taken, people often have a relapse of their infection as the disease can stay dormant in the body.
· Early treatment is important to prevent serious complications.
· In severe cases, hospitalization may be required.
· Full bed rest and plenty of liquids are necessary for proper recovery.
Prevention
Preventing typhoid fever involves practicing good hygiene including:
· Thorough handwashing with soap before and after meals and before and after using the bathroom
· Avoiding the consumption of untreated water or raw or undercooked food, especially in areas with a high prevalence of the disease. Avoid raw milk and fruits that cannot be peeled.
· Vaccination is also available and recommended for travellers to regions where typhoid fever is endemic. The vaccine does not prevent typhoid infection, but can prevent complications of typhoid and may be taken every three years.
