Typhoid fever facts for kids

Other unrelated diseases with a similar name are typhus and paratyphoid fever.

This map shows where typhoid was common in 2000. Red areas had many cases, brown areas had some cases.

Typhoid, also known as typhoid fever, is a serious illness. It is caused by a tiny germ called a bacterium. This specific germ is named Salmonella Typhi.

This illness usually spreads through water or food. This happens when the water or food has the Salmonella Typhi bacteria in it.

What Are the Symptoms of Typhoid?

Symptoms of typhoid often show up about 10 to 14 days after a person gets infected. The illness can last from two weeks to a month.

A main symptom is a high fever. This fever can reach 103-104 degrees Fahrenheit (39-40 degrees Celsius).

Other common symptoms include stomach pains and a headache. People might also feel very tired or confused. They may not feel hungry at all. Sometimes, small, flat, pink spots can appear on the skin. In some cases, people might carry the germ but show no symptoms at all.

How Does Typhoid Spread?

Typhoid spreads from person to person. It moves through contaminated food or water. This means water or food that has come into contact with the germs from an infected person.

Unlike other types of Salmonella germs, animals do not carry typhoid. Only humans can carry the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. This means people are the only source of the infection.

Where Is Typhoid Common?

Typhoid is not common in countries with good sanitation and clean water systems. For example, in the United States, there are only about 400 cases each year.

However, around the world, about 21 million people get typhoid every year. It is very common in places like the Indian subcontinent. This is often due to poor sanitation and a lack of basic hygiene. Children and teenagers, especially those aged 1 to 15 years, are often affected.

How Is Typhoid Treated?

Typhoid can be treated with special medicines called antibiotics. If a person does not get treatment, the illness can be very serious. Most people get better within a month if they receive proper care.

See also

In Spanish: Fiebre tifoidea para niños