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Typhoid fever is a serious illness caused by Salmonella typhi.
It is a rare infection in the United States (about 400 cases per
year) where most cases were acquired during foreign
travel. Typhoid fever is still common in the developing world.
Both ill persons and carriers shed S. Typhi in their feces
(stool). You can get typhoid fever if you eat food or drink
beverages that have been handled by a person who is shedding S.
Typhi and who has not adequately washed their hands before
handling food. Typhoid fever can be prevented by food and water
precautions augmented with vaccination where appropriate. Cases
can usually be treated with antibiotics.
If you are planning to travel outside the United States, you
should know about typhoid fever and what steps you can take to
protect yourself. Contact
Health Services
or your medical provider with any questions regarding diagnosis
and treatment.
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