Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTransmissionSymptomsCausesRisk FactorsDiagnosisTreatmentPreventionAvoiding InfectionTyphoid and TravelComplications
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Transmission
Symptoms
Causes
Risk Factors
Diagnosis
Treatment
Prevention
Avoiding Infection
Typhoid and Travel
Complications
Once in the body, the bacteria multiply and spread through the bloodstream, causing symptoms includingfever, gastrointestinal distress, and headache. Without early treatment using antibiotics, typhoid can cause severe health complications and death.
Typhoid is most common in Southern Asia, Western Pacific regions, Central and South America, the Caribbean, and Africa, and other areas without access to safe water and sanitation practices.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 157 cases of typhoid occurred in the United States in 2020.
This article discusses the transmission of the bacteria that causes typhoid, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment for typhoid.
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How Is Typhoid Transmitted?
The primary transmission method for typhoid is consuming water or food contaminated with theSalmonellatyphibacterium. Water and food can become contaminated with the bacterium through:
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Typhoid vs. Typhus
For example, unlike typhoid, which is primarily spread through contaminated water and food, in the United States, typhus is typically spread through fleas that contract it from animals, such as rats and opossums.
Person-to-Person Typhoid TransmissionTyphoid doesn’t usually spread from person-to-person contact. It is often spread through improper food handling.
Person-to-Person Typhoid Transmission
Typhoid doesn’t usually spread from person-to-person contact. It is often spread through improper food handling.
Typhoid Symptoms
There are various symptoms associated with a typhoid infection. They can include:
These symptoms can be either mild or severe. If the infection is left untreated, it can progress into worsened symptoms and severe health complications that can be fatal.
What Causes Typhoid?
Salmonella typhican pass to humans in the following ways:
Feces containing the bacterium can also get onto raw meat and poultry during the butchering process, spreading the infection.
Factors That Contribute to Typhoid TransmissionVarious factors play into typhoid transmission. They can include:A lack of access to clean water for drinking, bathing, or watering cropsImproper food handling practicesA lack of high standards of cleanliness or sanitationImproper disposal of human waste (sewage)
Factors That Contribute to Typhoid Transmission
Various factors play into typhoid transmission. They can include:A lack of access to clean water for drinking, bathing, or watering cropsImproper food handling practicesA lack of high standards of cleanliness or sanitationImproper disposal of human waste (sewage)
Various factors play into typhoid transmission. They can include:
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Who Is at Risk for Typhoid?
Those living in areas with poor sanitation practices and a lack of access to clean water are most likely to contract the bacterium that causes typhoid.
Children are considered more at risk than adults because their immune systems have yet to be fully developed. However, children often experience less severe symptoms if they do have typhoid.
Adults withweakened immune systemsare the most at risk for severe illness and life-threatening typhoid complications.
Most At-Risk Groups in Developed CountriesTravelers to areas with high typhoid rates are at the most significant risk of contracting it. Areas with the highest typhoid rates are:South AsiaAfricaCaribbeanCentral AmericaSouth AmericaSouth Asia
Most At-Risk Groups in Developed Countries
Travelers to areas with high typhoid rates are at the most significant risk of contracting it. Areas with the highest typhoid rates are:South AsiaAfricaCaribbeanCentral AmericaSouth AmericaSouth Asia
Travelers to areas with high typhoid rates are at the most significant risk of contracting it. Areas with the highest typhoid rates are:
How Typhoid Is Diagnosed
To diagnose typhoid, samples of blood, feces, or urine are taken. These samples will be examined microscopically to detect the presence ofSalmonellatyphi.
In some cases, repeat testing will be needed for confirmation, as the bacterium isn’t always detected during the first round of testing.
A sample ofbone marrowmay also be used to diagnose typhoid, as it’s one of the most accurate ways to detect the bacterium within the body. Typically, though, due to the painful and time-consuming nature of a bone marrow test, it is reserved for cases in which other tests are not conclusive.
Once Typhoid Is ConfirmedIn some cases, if you test positive for typhoid, those you live with will also be tested to see if the bacterium passed to others in the home.
Once Typhoid Is Confirmed
In some cases, if you test positive for typhoid, those you live with will also be tested to see if the bacterium passed to others in the home.
How Typhoid Is Treated
The primary treatment for typhoid isantibiotics, which fight bacterial infections. This is the most effective method since it is a bacterium causing the infection. Becauseantibiotic resistance(when pathogens such as bacteria develop defenses against antibiotics) continues to be a global threat, stronger antibiotics may be required.
To ensure that the medication works as intended, people with typhoid must follow these rules during treatment:
The Importance of Early TreatmentGetting treated soon after exposure will help reduce the risk of developing life-threatening complications. Typhoid can lead to death, so it’s vital to prevent transmission, as well as identify symptoms and get treated early.
The Importance of Early Treatment
Getting treated soon after exposure will help reduce the risk of developing life-threatening complications. Typhoid can lead to death, so it’s vital to prevent transmission, as well as identify symptoms and get treated early.
How to Prevent Typhoid
There are a few ways you can help prevent the spread of typhoid.
The first involves proper hygiene practices, such as washing hands after using the bathroom and before handling food.
Typhoid vaccination can prevent typhoid fever. Vaccination is recommended for those traveling to areas where typhoid is prevalent.
Typhoid Vaccine
Severalvaccinesare available for people who wish to reduce their risk of contracting typhoid. The vaccine given is based on factors such as their age.
The most common vaccine, known as a conjugate vaccine, contains a purified version of Vi antigen and is given in a single dose. It can be given to children as young as 6 months and adults up to age 65. A live attenuated oral vaccine is also available in capsule form for people aged 6 or above.
Other ways to avoid a typhoid infection include:
For those who live in developed countries, the risk of contracting typhoid is highest during travel. This is because many popular travel destinations fall into the high-risk categories of poor sanitation practices.
Those who visit family and friends in underdeveloped areas, as opposed to resorts and other tourist spots, are the most at risk for travel-induced typhoid because they are more likely to consume local foods and be exposed to unsafe water.
Reducing the Risk of Transmission During TravelGetting vaccinated, only drinking safe water, and getting tested when you get home are ways to prevent getting typhoid. These steps help reduce the chances that you’ll contract typhoid and develop life-threatening complications.
Reducing the Risk of Transmission During Travel
Getting vaccinated, only drinking safe water, and getting tested when you get home are ways to prevent getting typhoid. These steps help reduce the chances that you’ll contract typhoid and develop life-threatening complications.
Can Typhoid Fever Cause Complications?
Many severe complications can arise after a person contracts typhoid, all of which can be fatal. Some complications are:
Is Salmonella Deadly?
Summary
The infection and its symptoms, such as a high fever, diarrhea, and headache, can be treated with antibiotics. Since typhoid can be life-threatening, it’s essential to take precautions and seek prompt medical treatment if you contract the bacterium.
12 SourcesVerywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Government of Canada.Risks of typhoid fever. July 3, 2019.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.National typhoid and paratyphoid fever surveillance: Annual summary 2020. May 14, 2024.Njoya HF, Awolu MM, Christopher TB, Duclerc JF, Ateudjieu J, Wirsiy FS, Atuhaire C, Cumber SN. Prevalence and awareness of mode of transmission of typhoid fever in patients diagnosed withSalmonella typhiandparatyphiinfections at the Saint Elisabeth General Hospital Shisong, Bui Division, Cameroon.Pan Afr Med J.2021 Oct 7;40:83. doi:10.11604/pamj.2021.40.83.16893Cedars Sinai.Typhus vs. typhoid fever: What’s the difference?June 9, 2019.New York State Department of Health.Typhoid fever. September, 2017.World Health Organization.Typhoid. March 30, 2023.Ahmedullah H, Khan FY, Al Maslamani M, Al Soub H, Chacko K, Abu Khattab M, Mahmoud S, Howaidy F, Thapur M, Al Madhoun E, Hamed M, Doiphode S, Al Khal A, Deshmukh A.Epidemiological and clinical features ofSalmonellaTyphi infection among adult patients in Qatar: A hospital-based study.Oman Med J.2018 Nov;33(6):468-472. doi:10.5001/omj.2018.87UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid vaccine information.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid fever. June 2, 2023.Khalaf YJ, Alagha R.Fatal complications of extensive drug-resistant typhoid fever: A case report.Cureus.2023 Jun 20;15(6):e40672. doi:10.7759/cureus.40672
12 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Government of Canada.Risks of typhoid fever. July 3, 2019.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.National typhoid and paratyphoid fever surveillance: Annual summary 2020. May 14, 2024.Njoya HF, Awolu MM, Christopher TB, Duclerc JF, Ateudjieu J, Wirsiy FS, Atuhaire C, Cumber SN. Prevalence and awareness of mode of transmission of typhoid fever in patients diagnosed withSalmonella typhiandparatyphiinfections at the Saint Elisabeth General Hospital Shisong, Bui Division, Cameroon.Pan Afr Med J.2021 Oct 7;40:83. doi:10.11604/pamj.2021.40.83.16893Cedars Sinai.Typhus vs. typhoid fever: What’s the difference?June 9, 2019.New York State Department of Health.Typhoid fever. September, 2017.World Health Organization.Typhoid. March 30, 2023.Ahmedullah H, Khan FY, Al Maslamani M, Al Soub H, Chacko K, Abu Khattab M, Mahmoud S, Howaidy F, Thapur M, Al Madhoun E, Hamed M, Doiphode S, Al Khal A, Deshmukh A.Epidemiological and clinical features ofSalmonellaTyphi infection among adult patients in Qatar: A hospital-based study.Oman Med J.2018 Nov;33(6):468-472. doi:10.5001/omj.2018.87UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid vaccine information.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid fever. June 2, 2023.Khalaf YJ, Alagha R.Fatal complications of extensive drug-resistant typhoid fever: A case report.Cureus.2023 Jun 20;15(6):e40672. doi:10.7759/cureus.40672
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Government of Canada.Risks of typhoid fever. July 3, 2019.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.National typhoid and paratyphoid fever surveillance: Annual summary 2020. May 14, 2024.Njoya HF, Awolu MM, Christopher TB, Duclerc JF, Ateudjieu J, Wirsiy FS, Atuhaire C, Cumber SN. Prevalence and awareness of mode of transmission of typhoid fever in patients diagnosed withSalmonella typhiandparatyphiinfections at the Saint Elisabeth General Hospital Shisong, Bui Division, Cameroon.Pan Afr Med J.2021 Oct 7;40:83. doi:10.11604/pamj.2021.40.83.16893Cedars Sinai.Typhus vs. typhoid fever: What’s the difference?June 9, 2019.New York State Department of Health.Typhoid fever. September, 2017.World Health Organization.Typhoid. March 30, 2023.Ahmedullah H, Khan FY, Al Maslamani M, Al Soub H, Chacko K, Abu Khattab M, Mahmoud S, Howaidy F, Thapur M, Al Madhoun E, Hamed M, Doiphode S, Al Khal A, Deshmukh A.Epidemiological and clinical features ofSalmonellaTyphi infection among adult patients in Qatar: A hospital-based study.Oman Med J.2018 Nov;33(6):468-472. doi:10.5001/omj.2018.87UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid vaccine information.Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid fever. June 2, 2023.Khalaf YJ, Alagha R.Fatal complications of extensive drug-resistant typhoid fever: A case report.Cureus.2023 Jun 20;15(6):e40672. doi:10.7759/cureus.40672
Government of Canada.Risks of typhoid fever. July 3, 2019.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.National typhoid and paratyphoid fever surveillance: Annual summary 2020. May 14, 2024.
Njoya HF, Awolu MM, Christopher TB, Duclerc JF, Ateudjieu J, Wirsiy FS, Atuhaire C, Cumber SN. Prevalence and awareness of mode of transmission of typhoid fever in patients diagnosed withSalmonella typhiandparatyphiinfections at the Saint Elisabeth General Hospital Shisong, Bui Division, Cameroon.Pan Afr Med J.2021 Oct 7;40:83. doi:10.11604/pamj.2021.40.83.16893
Cedars Sinai.Typhus vs. typhoid fever: What’s the difference?June 9, 2019.
New York State Department of Health.Typhoid fever. September, 2017.
World Health Organization.Typhoid. March 30, 2023.
Ahmedullah H, Khan FY, Al Maslamani M, Al Soub H, Chacko K, Abu Khattab M, Mahmoud S, Howaidy F, Thapur M, Al Madhoun E, Hamed M, Doiphode S, Al Khal A, Deshmukh A.Epidemiological and clinical features ofSalmonellaTyphi infection among adult patients in Qatar: A hospital-based study.Oman Med J.2018 Nov;33(6):468-472. doi:10.5001/omj.2018.87
UK National Health Service.Typhoid fever. September 20, 2021.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid vaccine information.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Typhoid fever. June 2, 2023.
Khalaf YJ, Alagha R.Fatal complications of extensive drug-resistant typhoid fever: A case report.Cureus.2023 Jun 20;15(6):e40672. doi:10.7759/cureus.40672
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