These days the cases of typhoid are increasing in many states of the country. Usually, the reason behind this is contaminated water and food. Typhoid fever is caused by a bacteria called Salmonella typhi. Flies are believed to be responsible for spreading this bacteria. Wherever she sits, she releases these bacteria. If we consume the same contaminated water or outside food, then there can be a risk of typhoid. Typhoid causes problems like fever, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
As per the recently released HMIS report, Telangana is the country with more than 25% of cases reported after Manipur, Nagaland, and Bihar.
In this episode, let us know from the doctor what is the reason behind the increase in typhoid cases this season and how to be safe from it.
Why is typhoid increasing?
Presently the cases of typhoid have increased, we contacted Dr. Shrey Srivastava (Internal Medicine, Greater Noida) to know the reasons and prevention. Doctor Shrey explains that typhoid is caused by the consumption of contaminated water and food. Food spoils quickly in summer, on which flies start sitting. These flies can contaminate the food.
People with weak immunity are more vulnerable to it. Children are at a higher risk of typhoid as their immune system is weak and due to lack of personal hygiene, they fall prey to it.
How is typhoid fever different from viral fever?
Doctor Shrey says that there is no shivering in the body due to typhoid fever, whereas people often complain of cold in viral fever. Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, and rashes occur during typhoid. Apart from this, the problem of vomiting persists.
Viral fever remains in the body for three to four days. However, typhoid fever lasts longer. If it is not treated at the right time, the condition can become serious. In this case, get it checked in time.
Is Covid patient at risk of typhoid?
Presently the number of active cases of Covid-19 is around 3,736. In such a situation, are they at risk of typhoid? On this subject, Dr. Shrey told that, if the immune system of a Covid patient is very weak, then they may be more prone to typhoid. Due to non-maintenance of personal hygiene or consumption of outside food, Covid patients can easily fall prey to this disease.
How to prevent typhoid?
Regarding the prevention of typhoid, Dr. Shrey Ka says, if you live in an area where the water is contaminated, then take special precautions. You can get the typhoid vaccine installed to prevent it. Also, whenever you use water, first heat it and then use it after cooling. Apart from this, cook food cleanly and take care of personal hygiene as well.
Keep in mind, typhoid is not a person-to-person disease. However, it is very important to take some precautions during this time. If any member of your family has typhoid, try to find out the reason behind it and prevent it.
(PC: Freepik)