Information About Salmonella Typhi
Discover essential information about Salmonella Typhi, the bacterium responsible for typhoid fever. Learn about its transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention methods.
Written by Dr. Mohammed Kamran
Reviewed by Dr. D Bhanu Prakash MBBS, AFIH, Advanced certificate in critical care medicine, Fellowship in critical care medicine
Last updated on 20th Aug, 2025
Salmonella Typhi is a type of bacteria that causes typhoid fever, a serious and sometimes life-threatening illness. If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with typhoid fever, it’s important to understand the condition, its symptoms, and how to manage it effectively. This article will guide you through everything you need to know in simple, easy-to-understand terms.
What is Salmonella Typhi?
Salmonella Typhi is a bacterium that spreads through contaminated food and water. Unlike other types of Salmonella that cause food poisoning, this one specifically leads to typhoid fever, a more severe infection that requires medical attention.
How Does Salmonella Typhi Spread?
The bacteria spreads through:
Contaminated food and water: Eating food or drinking water that has been exposed to sewage or handled by someone carrying the bacteria.
Poor hygiene: Not washing hands properly after using the bathroom can spread the infection.
Close contact: Living with or caring for an infected person can increase the risk of transmission.
Typhoid fever is more common in areas with poor sanitation, but travellers to high-risk regions should also take precautions.
Symptoms of Typhoid Fever
Symptoms usually appear 1-3 weeks after exposure and may include:
High fever (up to 103–104°F)
Weakness and fatigue
Headache and body aches
Stomach pain and loss of appetite
Diarrhoea or constipation (sometimes alternating)
Rose-coloured spots on the chest or abdomen (in some cases)
If left untreated, typhoid fever can lead to serious complications like intestinal bleeding, perforation, or even death.
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Who is at Risk?
Some people are more likely to get infected, including:
Travellers visiting regions where typhoid is common (South Asia, Africa, Latin America).
People living in areas with poor sanitation.
Those with weakened immune systems.
Diagnosis and Treatment
If you suspect typhoid fever, a doctor may recommend:
Blood, stool, or urine tests to detect Salmonella Typhi.
Antibiotics to kill the bacteria (it’s important to complete the full course).
Fluids and rest to help recovery.
Never self-medicate—improper antibiotic use can lead to antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacteria.
Member priceHow to Prevent Typhoid Fever?
1. Vaccination
Two types of vaccines are available (oral and injectable).
Recommended for travellers to high-risk areas.
2. Safe Food and Water Habits
Drink boiled or bottled water.
Avoid raw or undercooked foods, especially street food.
Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly.
Avoid ice made from tap water.
3. Maintain Good Hygiene
Wash hands frequently with soap and water.
Use hand sanitiser if soap isn’t available.
Avoid sharing utensils with an infected person.
When to See a Doctor?
Seek medical help immediately if you experience:
Persistent high fever
Severe stomach pain
Blood in stool
Confusion or extreme weakness
If you’re planning to travel to a high-risk area, consult a doctor beforehand for vaccination advice.
Conclusion
Typhoid fever is preventable with the right precautions. If you suspect an infection, early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. By following good hygiene practices and getting vaccinated, you can significantly reduce your risk.
If you need expert advice or testing, you can book a consultation or schedule a test through Apollo 24|7 for quick and reliable healthcare support. Would you like more details on typhoid prevention or treatment options?
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Consult Top Specialists
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7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
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2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
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Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
Consult Top Specialists
Dr. Shubham Chauhan
General Practitioner
4 Years • MBBS
Lucknow
Apollo 24|7 Clinic - Uttar Pradesh, Lucknow
Dr. Dhankecha Mayank
General Practitioner
6 Years • MBBS
Gujarat
Apollo 24|7 Virtual Clinic - Gujarat, Gujarat
Dr. Rajib Ghose
General Practitioner
25 Years • MBBS
East Midnapore
VIVEKANANDA SEBA SADAN, East Midnapore
Dr. Swathi Reddy Perugu
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
7 Years • MBBS, MD (General Medicine)
Hyderabad
Health plus, Hyderabad
Dr. Mohamed Azeem
General Physician/ Internal Medicine Specialist
2 Years • MBBS,MD(Internal Medicine) CCEBDM
Karaikudi
Apollo Hospitals Karaikudi, Karaikudi
