What is Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water, especially in areas with poor sanitation.

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⚠️ Common Symptoms in Children:

• High, sustained fever (often 102–104°F / 39–40°C)

• Weakness, tiredness

• Abdominal pain or discomfort

• Poor appetite

• Headache

• Diarrhea or constipation

• Coated tongue

• Rash (rose spots) – flat, rose-colored spots on chest/abdomen (less common in children)

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🧪 When to Suspect Typhoid:

Seek medical attention if your child has:

• A fever >3 days with no clear cause

• Travel history to or living in a high-risk area

• Known exposure to someone with typhoid

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🩺 Diagnosis:

• Blood tests: Widal test, TyphiDot, or blood culture (most accurate)

• Stool/urine culture (sometimes used)

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💊 Treatment:

• Antibiotics prescribed by a doctor (complete the full course)

• Hydration and nutrition are key

• Avoid over-the-counter medicines unless advised

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⚠️ Warning Signs (Seek urgent care):

• Vomiting everything

• Altered consciousness

• Severe weakness

• Abdominal distension

• Bleeding from nose/gums

• Blood in stool

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🛡️ Prevention Tips:

1. Typhoid vaccine (available for children above 6 months–2 years depending on vaccine type)

2. Safe drinking water (boiled, bottled, or filtered)

3. Proper handwashing before eating and after using the toilet

4. Avoid:

   • Street food

   • Raw fruits/vegetables not washed properly

   • Unpasteurized milk or dairy

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🕒 How long does it last?

• With treatment: Usually 7–14 days

• Without treatment: Can last 3–4 weeks or lead to complications

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✅ Summary for Parents:

• Typhoid is preventable and treatable

• Maintain good hygiene and sanitation

• Complete the antibiotic course

• Watch for complications

• Get your child vaccinated if living in or visiting an endemic area