Typhoid fever

A disease that spreads through food and water or close contact.

Description

An illness caused by bacteria that can spread through tainted food and water or close contact with an infected person.

Overview

Typhoid fever is caused by salmonella bacteria. It is rare in places where water is treated to kill germs and where the disposal of people's waste is managed. Vaccines can help lower the risk of typhoid fever.

Symptoms

Typhoid fever symptoms include a fever that starts low and gets higher throughout the day. Other symptoms are headache, weakness and fatigue, stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea, and a rash. Without treatment, there is a small chance that the illness can cause life-threatening problems.

Treatments

Typhoid fever is treated with antibiotic medicine. This clears up infections caused by bacteria. Most people with the illness feel better about a week after they start treatment.