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August 8, 2018

WHAT IS TYPHOID?

Typhoid is an infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhimurium (S. typhi).

The bacterium lives in the intestines and bloodstream of humans. It spreads between individuals by direct contact with the feaces of an infected person. No animals carry this disease, so transmission is always human to human.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms normally begin between 6 and 30 days after exposure to the bacteria.

The two major symptoms of typhoid are fever and rash. Typhoid fever is particularly high, gradually increasing over several days up to 39 to 400c

The rash, which does not affect every patient, consists of rose-colored spots, particularly on the neck and abdomen.

Other symptoms can include:

  • Abdominal pain
  • Constipation
  • Headaches
  • Chills
  • Malaise
  • Sore throat
  • Cough
  • General body weakness

Rarely, symptoms might include confusion, diarrhoea, and vomiting, but this is not normally severe.

CAUSES

Typhoid is caused by the bacteria S. typhi and spread through food and drinking water that is contaminated with infected feacal matter. Washing fruit and vegetables can spread it, if contaminated water is used.

PREVENTION

AVOIDING INFECTION

Typhoid is spread by contact and ingestion of infected human feaces. This can happen through an infected water source or when handling food.

  • Drink bottled water, preferably carbonated.
  • If bottled water cannot be sourced, ensure water is boiled for at least one minute before consuming.
  • Be wary of eating anything that has been handled by someone else.
  • Avoid eating at street food stands, cook food thoroughly and only eat food whilst still hot.
  • Avoid raw fruit and vegetables, peel fruit yourself, and do not eat the peel.
  • Avoid shaking hands during public gatherings during typhoid outbreaks.
  • Wash hands thoroughly under running water and soap after using the toilet, before handling, preparing and eating food or after taking care of a sick person.

N.B IF YOU SUSPECT THAT YOU OR SOMEONE IN YOUR AREA HAS SYMPTOMS OF TYPHOID IMMEDIATELY REPORT TO YOUR NEAREST CLINIC OR HEALTH FACILITY!!!!!!!!!!