Typhoid

Typhoid

Typhoid fever is an infectious disease caused by the bacteria Salmonella typhi. It is also known as enteric fever, or commonly just typhoid. Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever are clinically indistinguishable diseases, collectively called enteric fever. It easily spreads through contaminated food and water supplies and close contact with others who are infected. The illness is characterized by very high fever, sweating, gastroenteritis, and diarrhea. Although typhoid is very rare in the developed world, it is still a serious health threat in the developing world. Typhoid is treatable with antibiotics.

Causes

Typhoid fever is an acute illness associated with fever caused by the Salmonella typhi bacteria. It can also be caused by Salmonella paratyphi, a related bacterium that usually causes a less severe illness. The bacteria are deposited in water or food by a human carrier and are then spread to other people in the area.

Symptoms:

Poor appetite.

Headaches.

Generalized aches and pains.

Fever as high as 104 degrees Farenheit.

Lethargy.

Diarrhea.

Vaccination

Typhoid fever can be prevented through proper sanitation and hygiene. To prevent typhoid, people in endemic areas should avoid drinking untreated water, avoid raw fruits and vegetables, and choose to consume hot foods where bacteria cannot survive, adequately clean household items, and avoid handling food if there is a risk of spreading the disease.

There are two vaccines that are recommended by the World Health Organization. They are usually only given to those who are traveling to typhoid endemic areas and they are from 50 to 80% effective in preventing typhoid.