Typhoid fever is a highly contagious bacterial infection that, without prompt treatment, can spread throughout the internal organs & be fatal.
It is caused by Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi), which is related to the Salmonella food poisoning bacteria. It is most common in places with restricted access to clean water.
If you are travelling to a high-risk area, it is important you get vaccinated against typhoid fever. Some strains of typhoid bacteria are becoming resistant to antibiotics.
Commonly affected locations
The Indian subcontinent, Africa, South Asia, Southeast Asia, South America
Symptoms*
The symptoms of typhoid fever take a week or two to develop & mainly include:
- a fever of 38C or above (high fever is common with typhoid, up to 40C)
- headache
- aches & pains
- constipation
- malaise (feeling generally unwell)
- cough
As the disease progresses, it can lead to loss of appetite, diarrhoea, nausea, tummy ache, & sometimes a skin rash.
With the correct antibiotics, typhoid fever symptoms usually begin to clear up within a few days.
