What is Typhoid Fever? Symptoms, Causes & Why Vaccination Matters

How Common is Typhoid Fever?

Globally, typhoid fever affects 11 to 21 million people each year, with over 100,000 deaths reported annually. It’s most common in regions with limited access to clean water and modern sewage systems.

In the UK, typhoid fever is rare, but cases still occur — almost always in travellers returning from high-risk countries.

Symptoms of Typhoid Fever

Symptoms usually develop 1 to 2 weeks after exposure and may last several weeks if untreated. Common symptoms include:

• High fever (up to 40°C)
• Weakness and fatigue
• Stomach pain or discomfort
• Headaches
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Dry cough
• Loss of appetite
• Enlarged spleen or liver
• Skin rash with flat, rose-coloured spots (in some cases)
• Mental confusion or delirium (in severe cases)

If left untreated, complications can include intestinal perforation, sepsis, or severe bleeding — all of which require emergency hospital treatment.

How Typhoid is Diagnosed

Typhoid fever is typically diagnosed using:

• Blood cultures
• Stool or urine samples
• Bone marrow cultures (in complex cases)

Early diagnosis is essential to start appropriate antibiotic treatment and prevent complications.

How is Typhoid Fever Treated?

Treatment usually involves a 7–14 day course of antibiotics, including ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, or ceftriaxone (depending on the resistance pattern). Most patients recover fully with prompt treatment.

However, antibiotic-resistant strains are becoming more common, especially in South Asia, making prevention through vaccination even more important.

Who is at Risk of Typhoid Fever?

You may be at increased risk if you:

• Travel to countries with poor sanitation or water hygiene
• Eat street food or raw produce while abroad
• Stay in areas with limited access to clean water
• Work in healthcare, aid, or development roles in endemic regions

High-risk regions include:

• India, Pakistan, Bangladesh
• Nepal, Sri Lanka
• Parts of Africa
• South and Central America
• Southeast Asia

Children, older adults, and immunocompromised individuals are particularly vulnerable.