Overview
Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, spread through food or water contaminated by an infected person. The fever climbs slowly over several days and can stay high for weeks if untreated. It is common where sanitation is poor, and it responds well to the right antibiotics — but incomplete treatment can lead to relapse or serious intestinal complications.
Symptoms
- Fever that rises gradually and stays high
- Weakness, headache and body ache
- Stomach pain, constipation or diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- A coated tongue and general feeling of illness
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if fever lasts more than two days or keeps rising, especially with stomach symptoms. Complete the full antibiotic course even after you feel better.
Causes
Drinking water or eating food contaminated with Salmonella typhi bacteria, often from unwashed hands, raw produce or street food handled unhygienically.