Menu

What Are the Common Symptoms of Typhoid Fever?

What Are the Common Symptoms of Typhoid Fever?

You might not think much about typhoid fever until it becomes a real risk — especially when travelling or eating outside your usual routine. Yet according to the World Health Organisation, between 11 and 20 million people are infected with typhoid each year, and up to 161,000 lose their lives to the disease.  Because typhoid spreads through contaminated food and water, it’s easy to pick up without realising. Recognising the symptoms early and getting tested promptly can help you recover faster and avoid complications. This article explains the common symptoms of typhoid fever, how it spreads, and how vaccination can help protect you before your next trip. 

What Are the Early Signs of Typhoid Fever? 

In most people, symptoms appear 6 to 30 days after infection. The illness usually begins slowly and worsens over time if untreated. 

Persistent Fever 

The main sign is a gradual, persistent fever that can rise as high as 40°C (104°F). It often comes in waves rather than sudden spikes. 

Headache and Fatigue 

Many people feel weak and tired and experience frequent headaches. These are often mistaken for flu-like symptoms in the early stages. 

Abdominal Pain and Loss of Appetite 

Stomach discomfort, nausea, and loss of appetite are also common. Some individuals may experience constipation at first, followed by diarrhoea later. 

What Are the Advanced Symptoms of Typhoid Fever? 

If untreated, symptoms can worsen after the first week and affect multiple organs in the body. 

Rash of Typhoid Fever 

A distinctive flat, rose-coloured rash may appear on the chest and abdomen. This rash of typhoid fever is a useful early indicator for pharmacists when assessing your condition. 

Severe Diarrhoea and Abdominal Swelling 

As the infection progresses, severe diarrhoea or abdominal bloating may occur. This indicates the bacteria have spread further in the digestive system. 

Confusion and Weakness 

In some cases, people may feel confused or extremely weak due to dehydration and infection spread. This stage requires urgent medical attention. 

How Is Typhoid Fever Diagnosed? 

A typhoid fever test helps confirm the diagnosis. Our pharmacists can guide you to suitable testing options if you have symptoms or have recently travelled to a high-risk area. 

Types of Typhoid Fever Tests 

  • Blood Test: Detects the bacteria or antibodies against it
  • Stool or Urine Test: Confirms ongoing infection
  • Bone Marrow Test: Used in complex or unclear cases
Testing early allows for effective treatment before complications arise. 

What Causes Typhoid Fever, and How Does It Spread? 

Typhoid fever causes are linked to poor sanitation and contaminated water. The infection spreads when a person consumes food or drink handled by someone carrying the Salmonella typhi bacteria.  You can reduce your risk by: 
  • Drinking bottled or boiled water when travelling
  • Avoiding raw or unwashed fruits and vegetables
  • Washing your hands before eating
These precautions are especially important when visiting regions where typhoid fever is common. 

Can Typhoid Fever Be Prevented? 

Yes, vaccination offers one of the best forms of protection. A typhoid fever vaccine is recommended for people travelling to areas where the disease is widespread. 

Types of Typhoid Fever Vaccines 

  • Injection (inactivated vaccine): Given as a single dose at least two weeks before travel
  • Typhoid fever oral vaccine: Taken in multiple doses over several days and provides longer protection
Vaccination greatly reduces your risk, though practising good hygiene remains essential. 

Plan Ahead with Typhoid Vaccination at Nima Pharmacy 

If you are planning to travel to regions where typhoid is common, it’s worth preparing in advance. Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also helps reduce the spread of infection in communities where clean water and sanitation may be limited. Alongside vaccination, practising safe eating and drinking habits while abroad offers the best protection.  If you notice any ongoing fever, stomach pain, or unusual tiredness after travel, speak with one of our pharmacists for advice on next steps, including suitable testing options.  Book an appointment at Nima Pharmacy today for your typhoid fever vaccine and personalised travel health advice. 

FAQs 

How quickly do the symptoms of typhoid fever start to appear?  

Typhoid fever symptoms usually develop about 1 to 2 weeks after exposure to the bacteria. 

Can a rash of typhoid fever appear, and what does it look like?  

Yes. A characteristic rash (often called rose spots) can appear on the chest or abdomen—flat, pink or rose-coloured spots are seen in about a third of cases. 

What does a typhoid fever test involve?  

A typhoid fever test may include blood, stool or urine samples to detect the bacteria or antibodies. In some complex cases a bone-marrow sample may be required. 

How does typhoid fever link to travel or food hygiene?  

The primary cause is the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It spreads through food or water contaminated by infected persons’ waste. Travelling to regions with poor sanitation increases risk. 

What are the most common typhoid fever symptoms someone should watch for?  

Key typhoid fever symptoms include a gradual high fever, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, stomach pain, constipation or diarrhoea and sometimes a rash. 

Does having a typhoid fever oral vaccine or injection guarantee you will not get the disease?  

No. Vaccination (whether the typhoid fever oral vaccine or injected vaccine) reduces your risk but does not guarantee 100% protection — good hygiene and safe travel habits remain important.
MENU