How to Treat Typhoid Fever
While cases of typhoid fever are rare in the United States, the illness is still prevalent throughout developing nations. It infects over 20 million people per year. The ways to diagnose and treat a case of typhoid fever are relative easy, but the ways to prevent exposure to the Salmonella Typhi bacteria that causes typhoid fever are even easier.
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Instructions
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Go to the emergency room as soon as you suspect that you've contracted typhoid fever. While a doctor may have the ability to treat typhoid fever, the illness can be quite destructive if left untreated. Visit a U.S. consulate for help when traveling in a foreign country.
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Get a prescription for an antibiotic to treat a case of typhoid fever. The antibiotics prescribed most frequently include trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, ciprofloxacin and ampicillin. Complete the antibiotic regimen your doctor prescribes, even if the typhoid fever symptoms ease quickly.
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Keep your environment as sanitary as possible. Use soap and water to scrub your hands after going outdoors or using the bathroom.
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Limit your interactions with others who aren't infected. Typhoid fever is extremely contagious. Don't prepare food for anyone until your doctor has decided you're cured.
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Inspect your bowel movements for traces of the Salmonella Typhi bacteria. Once your body is free of the bacteria, you'll be free of the illness. You'll have to visit your doctor's office for a stool culture.
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Tips & Warnings
If you're planning to travel to a developing nation, make sure to get a typhoid vaccination before your flight. Vaccinations are recommended before trips to Asia, Latin America or Africa. A simple shot can save you a lot of suffering.
To avoid the risk of typhoid fever, you should drink purified, bottled water while you travel. Boil tap water before you drink it to kill any harmful bacteria. Refuse ice cubes in your beverages, unless the ice is made from bottled water.
Make sure to eat food that's been cooked and cleaned properly. Avoid eating raw foods with skins that can't be pealed away. By watching what you eat, you'll also limit the risk of exposure to dysentery, cholera, hepatitis A or other illnesses that are spread through food.
It may be illegal for you to work for a certain period of time after contracting typhoid fever. This is meant to prevent the spread of the disease. These restrictions are especially important for people who work with food or children.
