Typhoid Fever - S. Typhi

(Salmonella Typhi)

General Information

Typhoid fever is a serious illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. In addition to a sustained fever, clinical symptoms include headache, weakness, and abdominal pain. Some patients develop a rash of flat, rose-colored spots.

Salmonella Typhi is transmitted by the fecal-oral route and is shed in the feces of ill persons and carriers (recovered patients).

About 400 cases are reported in the United States annually, and 70% of these are acquired while traveling internationally. Typhoid fever is still common in developing countries and affects about 12.5 million persons around the world each year. Travelers to a country where typhoid is common should consider vaccination prior to travel.

Information for Providers

This is a Wisconsin disease surveillance category II disease:

Wisconsin case reporting and public health follow-guidance

Questions about Typhoid Fever? Contact us!
Phone: 608-267-9003 | Fax: 608-261-4976

Glossary

 
Last revised October 7, 2021