Typhoid Fever

Overview

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria. This infection is still a serious problem among children in some parts of the world. Typhoid fever spreads via contaminated water and food or through close contact with someone who is infected. Most of them feel better within a few days of starting antibiotic treatment, although a small number of has higher mortality due to its complications.

Signs and Symptoms

1st week Fever, headache, myalgia, relative bradycardia, constipation, diarrhoea and vomiting End of 1st week Rose spots on trunk, splenomegaly, diarrhoea, abdominal distension, cough End of 2 week Delirium, coma and death

Common Causes

Virulent bacteria called Salmonella typhi transmitted via fecal-oral route

Risk Factors

Living or working in endemic areas, Close contact with person who is infected, Drinking contaminated water

Investigation Techniques

Full blood count , Blood culture , Bone marrow culture (most sensitive)

Treatment and Prevention

Antibiotic therapy: Chloramphenicol and ampicillin, azithromycin is an alternative if fluoroquinolones resistant Antipyretics for fever Drink plenty of fluid Maintain hygiene Consume clean food and water For travellers, those who are going to endemic areas advised to vaccinate for typhoid a week early.