Typhoid fever

Infection caused by a bacterium called Salmonella typhi, which infects the body via the digestive tract. It most commonly affects children and young adults. It is prevalent in Central and Southwest Asia, South America and sub-Saharan Africa.

The infected person can become a carrier, releasing the bacteria in their feces for years. Infection occurs when food and drink contaminated with human fecal products are ingested.

It presents with the triad of fever, skin changes and diarrhea. Characteristically, the fever is high and the diarrhea is intense, leaving the person with significant impairment of general condition.

Diagnosis is based on clinical examination, physical examination and blood and stool cultures.

Treatment includes proper hydration and antibiotics. It is essential to prevent infection by drinking bottled water, eating cooked food and by proper vaccination if travelling to endemic areas.