Typhoid fever

Latest update: - Authors: Mieke Croughs, Ula Maniewski-Kelner

Typhoid fever is a serious disease that is caused by a bacterium in contaminated food or water. The risk is very low for travellers who have access to safe food and drinks.

Symptoms of typhoid fever usually develop one to two weeks after infection and include.

  • high fever
  • weakness
  • headache
  • abdominal pain
  • muscle and joint pain

Some patients have:

  • constipation
  • diarrhoea
  • skin rash

This disease can be fatal without treatment. A previous infection of typhoid fever does not guarantee immunity.

Risk areas

Typhoid fever occurs mainly on the Indian sub-continent. The risk is lower in other countries in Asia, Central and South America and Africa.

Prevention

Food and drinks

The best protection against typhoid fever is to follow closely the advice for food and drinks.

Vaccination

A good and safe vaccine is available.

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