Typhoid fever is an acute illness associated with fever caused by the Salmonella typhi bacteria. It can also be caused by Salmonella paratyphi, a related bacterium that usually causes a less severe illness. The bacteria are deposited in water or food by a human carrier and are then spread to other people in the area.
Prevention
- Wash your hands. Frequent hand-washing in hot, soapy water is the best way to control infection. Wash before eating or preparing food and after using the toilet.
- Avoid drinking untreated water. Contaminated drinking water is a particular problem in areas where typhoid fever is endemic. So drink only bottled water.Carbonated bottled water is safer than uncarbonated bottled water is.
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables. Because raw produce may have been washed in unsafe water. Avoid fruits and vegetables that you can't peel.
- Choose hot foods. Avoid food that's stored or served at room temperature. Steaming hot foods are best.