Typhoid fever: what is it, how dangerous is it, how do you get it, and should you vaccinate?

What is typhoid fever?

• Typhoid fever is an intestinal infection caused by the Salmonella bacteria.
• When the bacteria travel through the intestines into the lymphatic system, the rest of the body is often infected through the bloodstream. In this case, an infection can lead to life-threatening situations.

Where does typhoid fever occur?

• Typhoid fever occurs primarily in (sub)tropical regions.
• The risk of infection is highest in Asia, especially in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
• You are also at risk in Africa and the Caribbean.
• The disease occurs primarily in poor hygienic conditions combined with a (sub)tropical climate. Consider regions with poor sewage systems, which can also contaminate drinking water.

What are the symptoms of typhoid fever?

• After a typhoid infection, it can take up to two weeks before you experience any real symptoms.
• If you become seriously ill, it can take several weeks to several months for the infection to clear.
• Typhoid fever has a mild onset but can worsen over time. The most common symptoms are: rising fever, decreased appetite, headache, muscle aches, abdominal discomfort, and red spots on the skin. Initially, you often experience constipation and a dry cough, and in some cases, diarrhea with blood.
• Aside from the usually severe symptoms in adults, the symptoms in young children are often much milder.

Can typhoid fever be treated?

• With immediate treatment with antibiotics, more than 99% of all people treated recover. This usually involves a course of antibiotics lasting 4 to 6 weeks.
• In some cases, even with treatment, recovery can take several weeks to several months.
• The more advanced the disease, the lower the chance of recovery and the greater the risk of persistent symptoms.

Are there vaccinations against typhoid fever?

• In countries where the risk of infection is increased, typhoid vaccination is recommended for stays longer than two weeks.
• In areas where the risk is not significantly increased, but are in the danger zone, typhoid vaccination is recommended for stays longer than three months.
• Approximately 70% of all vaccinated people are fully protected. If the vaccination is effective, you are protected for three years. Therefore, keep in mind that even with vaccination, you are not 100% certain of complete protection.
• Therefore, vigilance is just as important as vaccination.

What else can you do to prevent typhoid abroad?

• Typhoid is often transmitted through water or food contaminated with Salmonella bacteria. Good personal hygiene, as well as that of the people who prepare your food, is very important in preventing typhoid.
• Travelers visiting areas where typhoid fever is prevalent are advised to minimize their consumption of raw leafy vegetables and other food served at room temperature.
• Other recommendations and precautions include: drinking only bottled or boiled water, avoiding raw vegetables, raw shellfish, peeled fruit, or food with (many) flies on it. Food that is freshly prepared and then served hot or chilled is generally safe.
• Also, pay close attention to hygiene when using the restroom.