What is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is a life-threatening illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. It primarily spreads through contaminated food and water and is most common in regions with poor sanitation. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are an estimated 11–20 million typhoid cases worldwide annually, resulting in about 128,000 to 161,000 deaths each year.
Types of Typhoid Infections
There is only one main type of typhoid caused by Salmonella Typhi, but complications can arise from antibiotic-resistant strains. A related illness, paratyphoid fever, is caused by Salmonella Paratyphi and presents similar symptoms but is usually less severe.
Common Symptoms of Typhoid Fever
- High fever (103°F to 104°F or 39°C to 40°C)
- Weakness and fatigue
- Stomach pain and abdominal cramps
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Loss of appetite
- Headache and body aches
- Rose-colored spots on the chest or abdomen
Symptoms usually appear between 6 to 30 days after exposure. Without treatment, typhoid can lead to serious complications, including intestinal perforation.
Causes and Transmission
Typhoid is contracted through ingestion of food or water contaminated by feces from an infected person. Common sources include:
- Unsafe drinking water
- Street food prepared in unsanitary conditions
- Poor hand hygiene practices
In some cases, people become chronic carriers and continue to shed the bacteria for years without showing symptoms themselves.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Typhoid is diagnosed through blood, stool, or bone marrow cultures. Once diagnosed, it is usually treated with antibiotics such as:
- Ciprofloxacin (for non-pregnant adults)
- Ceftriaxone (especially for resistant cases)
Important: Due to the rise in multidrug-resistant strains of typhoid, patients must complete the full antibiotic course prescribed by a doctor.
Typhoid Prevention Tips
- Drink only boiled or bottled water
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables unless you peel them yourself
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially before eating
- Get vaccinated if traveling to high-risk areas
A Typhoid vaccine is available and recommended for people living in or traveling to endemic areas.
Research and Global Concern
Recent studies have highlighted the growing concern of drug-resistant typhoid, especially in South Asia and Sub-Saharan Africa. According to a 2023 study in The Lancet, typhoid is now spreading in new regions due to climate change and global migration.
Complications of Untreated Typhoid
- Internal bleeding
- Perforation of the intestines
- Severe dehydration
- Mental confusion or delirium
Early diagnosis and proper treatment significantly reduce the risk of complications.
Final Thoughts
Typhoid fever is preventable with proper hygiene and safe food practices. Awareness and vaccination can play a crucial role in controlling its spread.
Also read: Still Feeling Sick After COVID? The Silent Danger You Must Know
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