Typhoid Fever: Causes, Symptoms, Prevention, and Risks of Delayed Treatment

Typhoid fever continues to affect communities worldwide, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to safe drinking water. This potentially serious bacterial infection is caused by Salmonella Typhi and, if left untreated, can lead to severe complications and even death.

Causes
Typhoid fever is primarily spread through the ingestion of food or water contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. Poor hygiene, improper food handling, and inadequate sanitation increase the risk of transmission. The disease is most common in densely populated areas where access to clean water and proper sewage systems is limited.

Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 6 to 30 days after infection and include persistent high fever, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and diarrhea or constipation. Some patients may develop a rash of flat, rose-coloured spots on the chest or abdomen. Without early intervention, typhoid can progress to intestinal bleeding or perforation, which can be life-threatening.

Prevention
Preventing typhoid fever involves proper hygiene and safe food and water practices. Boiling or treating drinking water, washing hands thoroughly with soap, cooking food thoroughly, and avoiding raw or street foods are effective preventive measures. Vaccination is also recommended for people traveling to areas where typhoid is common. Public health campaigns and sanitation improvements in communities play a critical role in reducing the spread of the disease.

Effects if Not Treated Early
If typhoid fever is left untreated, it can result in severe complications such as intestinal perforation, organ failure, and death. Early treatment with appropriate antibiotics significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and transmission. Children, the elderly, and individuals with weakened immune systems are particularly vulnerable to severe disease.

Health authorities emphasize that typhoid fever is both preventable and treatable. Access to safe water, proper sanitation, vaccination, and prompt medical attention are essential in protecting communities from this dangerous infection.