Enteric Fever
Enteric fever is the name given to the disorder caused by infection with the bacteria salmonella typhi and salmonella paratyphi (not the same salmonella as are common contaminants of some foodstuffs in the UK!) These are spread by the faecal oral route, causing high fever and either constipation or diarrhoea, together with the development of a rash of rose pink spots. There may be associated enlargement of the spleen and, in severe infection, excessive bleeding. Typhoid fever can be fatal as a result of perforation of the bowel, but most cases recover, though a small percentage go on to become chronic carriers as a result of colonization of the gall bladder. Antibiotic treatment may be effective, though resistant strains are emerging. Vaccines are available to prevent disease in travellers to areas of the world where infection is endemic. As ever, proper hygiene is essential. Don’t drink the untreated water.
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