Typhoid

 

What is Typhoid?

Typhoid, or typhoid fever, is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It spreads primarily through contaminated food and water. The disease is more common in regions with poor sanitation and inadequate access to clean water.

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Symptoms of Typhoid

Symptoms generally develop 6-30 days after exposure and can include:

1. Fever - Persistent high fever, often rising in the afternoon.
2. Headache - Generalized or frontal.
3. Weakness and fatigue
4. Abdominal pain - Often accompanied by discomfort or bloating.
5. Constipation or diarrhea - Constipation is more common in adults, while children may experience diarrhea.
6. Rose-colored spots - A rash of flat, rose-colored spots may appear on the abdomen or chest in some cases.
7. Loss of appetite
8. Sweating
9. Cough and sore throat
10. Severe complications (if untreated):
    • Intestinal perforation
    • Sepsis
    • Delirium or confusion
      
      
      

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Prevention of Typhoid

1. Safe water and food:
   • Drink only bottled or boiled water.
   • Eat freshly cooked food and avoid raw or unpeeled fruits and vegetables.
2. Good hygiene:
   • Wash hands thoroughly with soap, especially after using the toilet and before eating.
3. Avoid risky food sources:
   • Avoid street food and drinks in areas with poor sanitation.
4. Vaccination:
   • Typhoid vaccines provide partial protection. They are especially recommended for travelers to endemic areas.

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Treatment of Typhoid

1. Antibiotics:
   • Common antibiotics include ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, and ceftriaxone. However, antibiotic resistance is increasingly common, requiring proper medical evaluation.
2. Rehydration:
   • Oral or intravenous fluids to prevent dehydration.
3. Rest and supportive care:
   • Adequate nutrition and rest to boost recovery.
4. Severe cases:
   • Hospitalization may be required for complications like intestinal perforation or severe dehydration.

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Typhoid Tests

1. Blood culture - The most definitive test, especially in the early stages.
2. Stool culture - Useful for detecting carriers or late-stage infections.
3. Widal test - Detects antibodies against Salmonella typhi, but it has limited accuracy and is not always reliable.
4. Bone marrow culture - Often the most sensitive test, especially if antibiotics have already been started.

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Typhoid Vaccine

1. Types of Vaccines:
   • Ty21a (oral vaccine): A live attenuated vaccine taken in capsule form.
   • Vi polysaccharide vaccine (injection): An inactivated vaccine given via injection.
   • Conjugate vaccines (e.g., Typbar-TCV): Newer vaccines with longer-lasting protection, suitable for children as young as six months.
2. Efficacy:
   • Vaccines do not provide 100% immunity but significantly reduce the risk of infection.
3. Who should get vaccinated?
   • Travelers to high-risk areas.
   • People in typhoid-endemic regions.
4. Booster doses:
   • Required every 2-5 years, depending on the vaccine type.

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Typhoid fever can be life-threatening if untreated but is preventable and treatable with appropriate measures. Always seek medical attention if you suspect typhoid symptoms.