Typhoid

Typhoid fever is an infection caused by a bacteria called “Salmonella typhi”. It is usually seen in developing countries, where there are low standards of hygiene. Travelers are exposed to typhoid fever when they visit these countries.

Countries at risk include South Asia, Africa, Asia, Central and South America and the Caribbean.

Typhoid fever is a reportable disease in Ontario.

Symptoms of typhoid fever include:

• fever
• headache
• constipation or diarrhea
• fatigue
• loss of appetite

Some people don’t develop any symptoms.

Typhoid fever can lead to serious complications such as:

• enlargement of the liver
• enlargement of the spleen
• bleeding in the intestines

It usually takes one to three weeks to become sick after being infected with typhoid fever.

You should see a health care provider if the illness seems to be causing more serious symptoms.

Typhoid fever is spread by eating or drinking contaminated food and water. The food and water is contaminated with feces of people that are infected.

Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotics to kill bacteria.

• practice safe food and water precautions
• there is a vaccine available to protect individuals over age two against typhoid fever

Simple preventative measures can reduce the spread of infection.