Typhoid fever : causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, prevention and complications - Naija health media

• Researched : Rchp. Khalpha Justice
• Medically reviewed : Prof. alkasim muhammad bala
• Editor : Victoria solomon ( B.A English language)

Definition

Typhoid fever is a systemic bacterial infection that is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It is characterized by fever, headache, malaise and abdominal pain, among others. The disease is endemic in many developing countries, where it is a major public health problem.

Types of typhoid fever

There are two types of typhoid fever: typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever. Both are caused by different strains of Salmonella bacteria.

Causes of typhoid fever

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella typhi, a gram-negative bacterium. It is transmitted through contaminated food and water. Ingestion of contaminated food and water is the most common mode of transmission of typhoid fever. The bacterium can survive for weeks in water and for months in dried sewage.

Causative Agent of typhoid fever

The causative agent of typhoid fever is Salmonella typhi, a gram-negative bacterium. The bacterium is transmitted through the fecal-oral route, which means it is shed in the feces of infected individuals and can be transmitted to other individuals through contaminated food and water.

Mode of Transmission

The mode of transmission of typhoid fever is through contaminated food and water. The bacterium can also be transmitted through close contact with an infected person or carrier. 

Incubation Period of typhoid fever

The incubation period of typhoid fever is typically 7-14 days. However, it can range from 3-60 days depending on the individual's immune status and the infectious dose of the bacterium.

Signs and Symptoms of typhoid fever

The signs and symptoms of typhoid fever are nonspecific and can resemble those of other illnesses. They typically develop gradually over a period of 1-3 weeks. Common symptoms include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Malaise
• Abdominal pain
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Nausea and vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Rash

Diagnosis and Testing

The diagnosis of typhoid fever is based on a combination of clinical symptoms, travel history, and laboratory testing. Blood, stool, and urine samples may be tested to identify the bacterium or its antibodies.

Management and Treatment

The management and treatment of typhoid fever depend on the severity of the illness. Mild cases can be managed with oral antibiotics, while severe cases may require hospitalization and intravenous antibiotics. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove infected tissues or treat complications such as intestinal perforation.

Risk Factors of typhoid fever

• The risk factors for typhoid fever include:
• Living in or traveling to areas with poor sanitation and hygiene
• Consuming contaminated food and water
• Being in close contact with an infected person or carrier

Prevention and Control typhoid fever

Prevention and control measures for typhoid fever include:

• Ensuring access to safe and clean water sources
• Proper disposal of sewage and waste
• Safe food handling practices
• Vaccination against typhoid fever
• Education on personal hygiene and sanitation

Complications of typhoid fever

Complications of typhoid fever can be serious and even life-threatening. They can include intestinal perforation, bleeding, sepsis, and other complications. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing complications.

Outcome for Infected People

The outcome for infected individuals depends on the severity of the illness and the timing of treatment. Mild cases typically resolve within a few weeks with appropriate treatment, while severe cases may require hospitalization and can be fatal if left untreated.

Conclusion

Typhoid fever is a serious and potentially fatal disease that is endemic in many developing countries. It is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, which is transmitted through contaminated food and water. The disease is characterized by a variety of signs and symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical in preventing complications and improving outcomes for infected individuals. Personal and public hygiene practices, and vaccination are prevention and control measures that are essential in reducing the burden of typhoid fever.

References:

• World Health Organization. Typhoid fever. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/typhoid-fever. Accessed March 16, 2023.
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Typhoid Fever. https://www.cdc.gov/typhoid-fever/index.html. Accessed March 16, 2023.
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