With the rise in population, various ailments are seen to affect people at large. One such type of fever that is commonly caused is typhoid. Typhoid is a bacterial infection that spreads due to contaminated food and unclean water. Salmonella typhi bacteria is the type of bacteria that is responsible for it.
Although it is a type of fever, not receiving proper treatment at the right time can result in life-threatening complications. Thus, having a safety net in the form of a health insurance policy can aid to receive timely treatment. The countries of Africa, Southeast Asia, South America are some regions where typhoid is common including India. In this article, we learn more about the symptoms, causes and how you can prevent typhoid.
What are the symptoms of typhoid?
The symptoms of typhoid can vary among people but there are a few common signs that generally tend to surface after a week or two. Abdominal pain, high fever, weakness, rashes, fatigue, loss of appetite, diarrhoea, longer duration headache and constipation in some cases are common signs to look for. Some more severe cases include bleeding of the intestine with perforations. It can further lead to sepsis which is a fatal infection of the bloodstream. A few other signs that require immediate medical attention are pneumonia, pancreatitis, infections related to the kidney, inflammation of the heart muscles or myocarditis, infection of the inner lining of the heart or endocarditis, meningitis (inflammation of the brain) and also hallucinations.
What are the possible causes of typhoid and its risk factors?
The primary mode of transmission of typhoid is the oral route caused by the consumption of faecal matter either through contaminated food or water. Salmonella bacterium is the cause of bacteria. Although it is not limited to this but can also be contracted by coming in contact with an already infected person. In some cases, a person might recover from typhoid and yet carry the bacteria. These individuals are called ‘carriers’ and end up transmitting the bacteria to others.
How to prevent yourself from typhoid?
As complicated as it may seem, it is a fairly straightforward way to keep yourself safe. These measures should be taken especially when you’re travelling.
Watch what you drink: Being careful about the source of your drink is essential. For instance, drinking water from an area close by defecation can have traces of faecal matter in the water. Likewise, having popsicles and ice-cubes made from an unreliable source of water should be avoided. Try drinking boiled water and other hot beverages.
Mind what you eat: Avoiding food from street vendors can go well in maintaining hygiene. Further, abstain from eating raw meat and fish. Try to eat fully cooked meals.
Practice good hygiene: Lastly, it is essential to practice good hygiene. Washing hands before meals and consumption of food or beverage from an unhygienic place should be avoided.
Apart from the above-mentioned methods, having a health insurance policy can come handy. There are various types of health insurance plans that offer coverage for treatment of typhoid. Having a safety net in the form of an insurance cover can help in protection not only you but also your family. If safeguarding your family is your primary concern, health insurance plans for family are the ones to consider. Many plans offer vaccination facilities that can help your body prepare to fight against this bacteria.
