Infections (whole body)Bacterial infectionICD-10 A01
Typhoid fever
Also called: Enteric fever
A systemic bacterial infection spread through contaminated food and water, causing prolonged high fever.
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Causes
- Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi
Risk factors
- Unsafe water and sanitation
- Travel to South Asia and Africa
Symptoms
- Stepwise rising fever
- Headache
- Abdominal pain
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Rose spots
- Relatively slow pulse
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Blood cultures
- Stool cultures
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Antibiotics guided by resistance (azithromycin, ceftriaxone, carbapenems for XDR strains)
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Hydration
Possible complications
- Intestinal perforation and bleeding
- Chronic carriage
Prevention
- Safe water and food hygiene
- Typhoid conjugate vaccine
Outlook
Excellent with appropriate antibiotics.
When to see a doctor
Seek care for persistent fever after travel.
Sources and further reading
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