Typhoid Fever

Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection that affects millions of people worldwide, particularly in regions with limited access to clean water and proper sanitation. The bacterium Salmonella typhi causes it and spreads primarily through contaminated food and water. While the disease can be life-threatening if left untreated, it is both preventable and treatable with the right measures.

What is Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid fever is an acute illness that mainly targets the intestinal tract and bloodstream. Once Salmonella typhi enters the body, it travels through the intestines, multiplies, and spreads into the blood, leading to high fever and other severe symptoms. Unlike common food poisoning, typhoid is more persistent and requires medical treatment to recover fully.

Causes and Transmission

The primary cause of typhoid fever is consuming food or water contaminated with the faeces or urine of an infected person. Poor sanitation, lack of clean drinking water, and inadequate hygiene practices make certain regions more vulnerable to outbreaks. Some people, known as “carriers,” may not show symptoms but can still spread the disease, which makes controlling typhoid challenging.

Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever symptoms usually appear 1–3 weeks after exposure and can worsen if left untreated. Common symptoms include:

High, prolonged fever

Weakness and fatigue

Stomach pain and diarrhoea or constipation

Loss of appetite

Headaches and body aches

In severe cases, intestinal bleeding or perforation

If untreated, complications can become fatal, making early diagnosis and medical care essential.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Doctors usually confirm typhoid through blood, stool, or urine tests. Once diagnosed, antibiotics are the primary treatment method to kill the bacteria. It is also crucial for patients to stay hydrated and maintain proper nutrition during recovery. Without timely treatment, typhoid can lead to serious health complications and even death.

Prevention Strategies

Prevention remains the best defence against typhoid fever. Here are some effective steps to reduce the risk:

Drink only boiled or bottled water

Wash your hands thoroughly before eating and after using the toilet.

Avoid raw or street food that may be contaminated.

Get vaccinated if travelling to areas where typhoid is common.

Improve sanitation and hygiene in communities to stop the spread.

Final Thoughts

Typhoid fever continues to pose a global health challenge, particularly in developing countries. While modern medicine has made treatment easier, prevention through clean water, proper sanitation, vaccination, and hygiene practices remains the most effective way to protect against the disease. By spreading awareness and improving public health infrastructure, we can significantly reduce the burden of typhoid worldwide.