Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection that can spread throughout the body, impacting multiple organs and, if untreated, may lead to severe complications or even death.
The illness is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which is related to the bacteria responsible for salmonella food poisoning.
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Typhoid fever is highly contagious. Infected individuals can excrete the bacteria through their stool, and less commonly, through urine.
When someone consumes food or water contaminated with even a small amount of this infected waste, they can contract the bacteria and develop typhoid fever.
Who’s Affected?
Typhoid fever is most prevalent in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean water.
Globally, children are thought to be most susceptible to typhoid fever, possibly because their immune systems are still developing. However, children with typhoid fever often experience milder symptoms than adults.
Symptoms of Typhoid Fever
The primary symptoms of typhoid fever include:
- A persistent high fever that gradually rises each day
- Headache
- General body aches and pains
- Extreme fatigue
- Cough
- Constipation
As the infection progresses, symptoms may worsen, including loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. Some people may also develop a rash.
Without treatment, these symptoms can intensify over the next few weeks, raising the risk of life-threatening complications.