Typhoid fever
Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection spread through food or water that has been contaminated with the stool of an infected person. It is common in Afghanistan, especially where drinking water is not safe. Without proper treatment it can cause serious problems, such as bleeding or a hole in the bowel.
Symptoms
- Fever that rises slowly over several days and stays high
- Headache
- Stomach pain
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Weakness and tiredness
- Loss of appetite
- Dry cough
Causes
- Salmonella Typhi bacteria
- Drinking unsafe water
- Eating food prepared by someone who carries the germ and did not wash their hands
- Raw vegetables or salads washed in dirty water
- Poor sanitation and open sewage
Prevention
- Drink boiled or treated water
- Wash hands with soap after using the toilet and before eating or cooking
- Eat food that is freshly cooked and hot
- Wash fruit and vegetables with clean water, or peel them
- Avoid raw food and drinks from street sellers
- Typhoid vaccine, especially for people at high risk
Treatment
- Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor after a blood or stool test; finish the full course
- Many typhoid germs are now resistant to common antibiotics, so the choice must be made by a doctor
- Rest and plenty of fluids
- Soft, easy-to-digest food
- Hospital care for severe illness or complications
- Do not start antibiotics or other prescription medicines without a doctor
Common questions
Is the Widal test enough to diagnose typhoid?
Not always. The Widal test often gives false results, especially in places where typhoid is common. A blood culture is more reliable. Your doctor will decide which test is needed.
Can typhoid come back?
Yes. Typhoid can return if the antibiotic course is not finished. Some people also carry the germ after they recover and can spread it, so careful handwashing is important.