Typhoid Fever

What is typhoid fever?

Typhoid fever is a serious infection caused by bacteria called Salmonella typhi. It spreads easily through contaminated water and food and affects millions of people every year. In Africa, where access to clean water and proper sanitation is a challenge in many areas, typhoid remains a major public health concern. According to the world health organization (WHO), Africa records over 1.2 million cases of typhoid annually, leading to thousands of deaths, especially among children and young adults.

If not treated, typhoid can cause severe complications, including internal bleeding and lifethreatening infections. The good news is that it is preventable and treatable!

Common misconceptions about typhoid fever?

There are many myths surrounding typhoid. Here are some common ones:

  • Not all stomach aches or diarrhoea are typhoid. Some people assume that every case of stomach pain or loose stool is typhoid, but other infections can cause similar symptoms.
  • Typhoid is not linked to sexual weakness. There is no medical evidence that typhoid causes sexual problems.
  • Herbal remedies alone cannot cure typhoid. While some traditional remedies may help with symptoms, antibiotics are the only proven cure for typhoid.

How common is typhoid in Africa?

Typhoid is widespread in Africa, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. The disease is common in:

  • Crowded urban slums
  • Rural communities with untreated water sources
  • Regions affected by floods, where water sources get contaminated

In some African countries, typhoid outbreaks occur during rainy seasons due to water contamination.

Signs and symptoms of typhoid fever?

Typhoid symptoms usually appear one to two weeks after infection. The symptoms include:

  • High fever (up to 40°C or 104°F)
  • Weakness and tiredness
  • Stomach pain and bloating
  • Headache
  • Poor appetite
  • Rash (small pink spots on the skin)
  • Constipation or diarrhoea
  • Severe cases: Confusion, swollen stomach, and difficulty breathing

If left untreated, typhoid can cause internal bleeding and holes (perforations) in the intestines, leading to a life-threatening condition called sepsis.

How does typhoid spread?

Typhoid spreads through contaminated food and water. The bacteria enter the body when:

  • You drink water or eat food contaminated with faeces or urine from an infected person
  • You eat food handled by someone who has typhoid and didn’t wash their hands properly
  • You use dirty utensils or cups
  • You live in close contact with an infected person

How to prevent typhoid fever?

Be careful about what you drink

  • Drink bottled or treated water
  • Avoid drinking directly from the tap or well unless boiled
  • Stay away from ice cubes and street juices unless you’re sure they are from clean water

Be mindful of what you eat

  • Eat well-cooked food and ensure it is hot when served
  • Avoid raw vegetables and salads from street vendors
  • Wash fruits thoroughly before eating
  • Don’t eat undercooked meat or seafood

Maintain good hygiene

  • Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating and after using the toilet
  • Use hand sanitizer if soap and water are unavailable
  • Keep your surroundings clean and dispose of waste properly

Is there a typhoid vaccine?

Yes! Vaccination is an effective way to prevent typhoid, especially for people at high risk. The vaccine is recommended for:

  • People living in areas with frequent typhoid outbreaks
  • Travelers visiting typhoid-prone areas
  • Healthcare and laboratory workers handling typhoid bacteria

There are two types of typhoid vaccines:

  • Injection vaccine (inactive): Given as a single shot; booster needed every 2 years.
  • Oral vaccine (live): Taken in 4 doses over 7 days; booster needed every 5 years.

How is typhoid diagnosed and treated?

Doctors diagnose typhoid by testing blood, stool, or urine samples. If you have symptoms, visit a healthcare center for a proper check-up.

Treatment:

  • Typhoid is treated with antibiotics such as azithromycin, ceftriaxone, or fluoroquinolones.
  • Complete the full dose of medication, even if you feel better, to prevent resistance.
  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food to recover quickly.

Chronic carriers: Even after treatment, some people continue to carry and spread typhoid bacteria without showing symptoms. These chronic carriers need extra medical attention to prevent further infections in the community.