Paratyphoid or enteric fever is a bacterial disease transmitted by the fecal-oral route.

Causes

• Salmonella paratyphi A
• Salmonella paratyphi B
• Salmonella paratyphi C
• Contaminated food and water

Symptoms

• High and sustained fever
• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Appetite loss
• Non productive cough
• Constipation or diarrhea
• Rose spots on the chest
• Fogginess or confusion

Treatment

• Antibiotics
• Bed rest
• Fluid replacement

Prevention

• Washing hands after using the toilet
• Washing hands before handling and consuming food
• Washing raw fruits and vegetables before consumption
• Storing and cooking meats appropriately
• Vaccination when travelling to typhoid prone areas