Typhoid fever and paratyphoid fever are serious illnesses caused by related Salmonella bacteria. In the United States, many cases are associated with international travel.
These infections do not spread simply because one family member is nearby. Transmission usually occurs when food or water is contaminated.
Symptoms
Possible symptoms include persistent fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache, diarrhea or constipation, cough, loss of appetite, and sometimes a rose-colored rash.
When to Seek Care
Contact a healthcare professional promptly for fever after travel to an area where typhoid or paratyphoid occurs.
Tell the clinician where and when you traveled, food and water exposures, vaccination history, symptoms, and antibiotics already taken.
Vaccination and Prevention
Typhoid vaccination may be recommended before travel to certain destinations. Vaccines are not fully protective and do not prevent paratyphoid fever.
Use safe food and water practices and wash hands frequently.
Antibiotic Resistance
Some typhoid bacteria are resistant to commonly used antibiotics. Treatment should be selected by a qualified clinician based on travel history, testing, and current guidance.
Do not use leftover or unprescribed antibiotics.
Finding Lower-Cost Care
Possible options include community health centers, county health departments, public hospitals, teaching hospitals, charitable clinics, and hospital financial assistance.
Not every free clinic can test for or manage serious infection. Call first and use emergency care for severe symptoms.
Sources
- CDC: About typhoid and paratyphoid fever
- CDC: Symptoms
- CDC: Prevention
- CDC Yellow Book
- HRSA: Find a Health Center
This article is for general information only and is not medical advice.