Five year-old Amar was diagnosed with viral fever. However, when the fever did not subside even after five days of treatment the doctor recommended a blood test as he suspected it to be typhoid.sni

I have heard a lot about typhoid fever and its after effects on health. But it is bothering me to know that despite taking so much care of my child he has developed typhoid, says the mother.sni

What is Typhoid

Typhoid is a food and water borne illness and a feverish disease caused by bacteria. It is uncommon under two years of age because of its nature of illness. It spreads through contaminated food and water. Dr Muhammad Younas, a pediatrician based in Multan says that it is highly contagious and can even spread through stool and urine of an infected person.sni

Like cholera, typhoid is one of the prime contagious diseases of the world today. It is more common in developing or under developed countries because of unhygienic conditions. A child may get infected after having food or drink that has been handled by an infected person who has not washed his hands properly after using the toilet. Consuming water contaminated with sewage water or from swimming pools can also cause serious problems.sni

Symptoms of Typhoid

Dr Maqbool Ahmad, a pediatrician from Islamabad states that the signs and symptoms of typhoid are confusing therefore difficult to detect. They usually appear within one to three weeks and may be mild or severe. If fever prolongs over five days then consultation for typhoid is must.sni

Its basic indications are; fever as high as 104 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius), headache, sore throat, enlarged liver or spleen, constipation or diarrhea, stomachache and tiredness or weakness. Persistent vomiting, body pain, swollen tummy, lack of appetite and red spots or rashes on chest which usually clear up within two to five days are also some signs. If not treated timely, it can trigger further complications like pneumonia, infection in liver and kidney and meningitis etcetera.sni

Diagnosis & Treatment of Typhoid

Typhoid can be detected through blood test or from testing stool or urine samples of an infected person.sni

The disease can be treated with antibiotics but Dr Younas adds that completing the course however is important. Parents must not end the treatment early even if child feels better or fever vanishes.sni

Typhoid Management

Dr Maqbool recommends some precautions for patients: give them plenty of fluids and drinks to prevent dehydration. In case of emergency drips, that is intravenous fluids can be given. ORS can also replace all the lost fluids and nutrients. Use boiled water and let them have plenty of rest. Give them easily digestible foods like porridge, soups, custard and soft bread.sni

Avoid foods from street vendors; it is a home to germs. Give your little ones homemade healthy lunch for school, instead of giving them money. Discourage them from eating out. Avoid all kinds of spices. Do not use over cooked or under cooked or raw food. Give them small frequent meals instead of three big meals. Unpeeled fruits and vegetables must be washed properly. Hygiene is the most important factor for health restoration. Wash your own and your child’s hands before eating and after using the toilet.sni

There should be proper disposal of sewerage and garbage to avoid such problems. Follow a healthy diet, balanced lifestyle and proper hygiene measures to prevent relapse of disease.sni

In rare cases, it can also occur in infants. Give him breast milk as much as possible and refreshing washes to keep away germs. Keep your kitchen clean, properly wash the cooking area, utensils and tables with soap and water after meals; it will keep dirt and germs away.sni

Dr Younas says that dietary modifications are highly important for recovery as it is a digestive tract infection. Even after treatment, use more carbohydrates for instant energy purpose. Include fats in the diet if there is no diarrhea as it is high in energy. Milk products can be used. Proteins are essential as they replace the worn out cells and help in the repairing process of the body. Start solid foods gradually.sni

Typhoid is not a tropical disease. It is related to hygiene and sanitary conditions rather than climate itself. The WHO estimates that there are approximately 17 million typhoid cases a year, which result in 600,000 deaths. And it is most common in Asian countries. Ensuring proper hygiene and sanitation will definitely shield a child against this disease.sni

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