Typhoid

Typhoid is a communicable disease caused by a bacterium called Salmonella typhi, usually spread through contaminated food or water.

• How it enters the body: The bacteria are swallowed and then multiply in the intestine and can spread through the blood to other parts of the body.
• Why it spreads easily: If an infected person’s waste (stool/urine) gets into water or food due to poor sanitation, the bacteria can reach many people—especially where drinking water is not clean.
• Common signs: Typhoid often causes high fever, headache, weakness, and abdominal pain. Some people may have diarrhoea or constipation.
• Real-life example: Drinking water from an unsafe source or eating food handled with unwashed hands can allow typhoid bacteria to enter the body.
• Prevention that really works: Boiled/filtered water, properly cooked food, and handwashing with soap (especially after using the toilet and before eating) break the chain of spread.
• Extra point to know: Some people may feel better but still carry the bacteria for a long time and spread it—so completing treatment and maintaining hygiene matters.