Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads mainly through contaminated food and water and is common in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.

Symptoms

Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of congestive heart failure, asthma or diabetes. Stomach symptoms such as vomiting, diarrhea and nausea can also occur but are more common in children.

•   High, prolonged fever that rises in a “step-ladder” pattern (may reach 104°F / 40°C)
•  Fatigue and weakness
•   Headache and muscle pain
• Nausea, loss of appetite, and occasional vomiting
•  People with health issues (like asthma, diabetes, heart problems)
•  Constipation (more common in adults) or diarrhea (more common in children)
•  People with health issues (like asthma, diabetes, heart problems)
•  Abdominal pain and a bloated belly
•  Rash of faint, rose-colored spots on the chest or abdomen (in some cases)

Severe, untreated cases can lead to serious complications such as intestinal bleeding, intestinal perforation (a hole in the intestine), or sepsis (a widespread blood infection). These require immediate medical attention.

Treatment

Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotics, and early treatment is essential for recovery and to prevent complications.

•   Antibiotics: Complete the entire prescribed course to eliminate bacteria and avoid relapse or carrier status
•  Supportive care: Maintain hydration (oral rehydration solutions or IV fluids), get plenty of rest, and follow an easily digestible diet.
•   Hospitalization: Needed for severe cases, complications, or intravenous treatment.

Note: Antibiotic resistance in Salmonella Typhi is increasing, so proper diagnosis and sensitivity testing are very important.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

•   Travelers to regions where typhoid is common (Africa, Asia, Latin America). Vaccination should ideally be completed 1–2 weeks before travel.
•  Close contacts of someone who is a chronic typhoid carrier.
•  Laboratory workers handling Salmonella Typhi
• Residents of or near outbreak-prone areas with poor sanitation and unsafe water
•  The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends routine use of Typhoid Conjugate Vaccines (TCVs) in countries where typhoid is endemic.