Overview
Typhoid is an infectious disease caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. It spreads from person to person through contaminated food, water, or poor sanitation. The illness can range from mild to severe, and some people can become very sick if it is not treated.
Key Symptoms
Symptoms often include a gradually increasing fever, weakness, headache, stomach pain, loss of appetite, and either constipation or diarrhea. Some people have nausea, cough, or a rash of small pink spots. Symptoms may develop over days to weeks after exposure.
Causes and Risk Factors
Typhoid happens when Salmonella Typhi enters the body through contaminated food or drinking water. Risk is higher in places with limited access to clean water, sewage systems, and handwashing facilities. Close contact with someone who is infected or who carries the bacteria can also spread it.
Who Is Affected
Typhoid can affect children and adults. It is more common in parts of the world where sanitation infrastructure is limited, including some areas of South Asia, Africa, and other regions. Travelers to places where typhoid is more common may also be at risk.
Prevention
Prevention includes careful handwashing with soap, drinking treated or bottled water when needed, and eating food that is cooked and served hot. Avoid raw foods washed in unsafe water and be cautious with ice and street food in higher-risk settings. Vaccination may be recommended for some travelers or others at increased risk, but it does not replace food and water precautions.
Diagnosis and Tests
A healthcare professional may suspect typhoid based on symptoms, travel history, and possible exposures. Diagnosis is usually confirmed with laboratory testing, such as blood, stool, or other cultures. Testing also helps guide treatment decisions.
Treatment Categories
Typhoid needs medical treatment and follow-up. Treatment may include antibiotics chosen by a clinician, along with fluids and supportive care. In some places, antibiotic resistance is a concern, so it is especially important not to self-treat and to follow professional advice.
When to Seek Medical Care
Seek medical care promptly if you have ongoing fever, severe stomach symptoms, dehydration, confusion, or if you recently traveled to an area where typhoid is more common. Children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with a weakened immune system should be assessed early. Early evaluation can help lower the chance of complications.
When It May Be an Emergency
Get urgent medical help if there are signs of severe dehydration, fainting, trouble staying awake, severe abdominal pain, blood in the stool, or signs of shock such as cold clammy skin or rapid breathing. Emergency care is also needed if a person becomes confused, has a seizure, or seems much worse very quickly. These can be signs of serious complications.