Monsoon Diseases: Expert Shares Tips To Keep Typhoid At Bay

As the monsoon season sets in, concerns about waterborne diseases like typhoid are on the rise. Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhii and is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water. To stay safe, we spoke with Dr. Jatin Ahuja, a senior consultant in infectious diseases at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, who shared valuable insights on the symptoms and preventive measures to keep typhoid at bay.

According to Dr. Ahuja, symptoms of typhoid fever typically appear within 1-3 weeks after exposure and can range from mild to severe. The symptoms develop gradually and may include:

• A high fever that can reach up to 103-104 degrees Fahrenheit (39-40 degrees Celsius)
• Persistent tiredness and weakness
• Abdominal pain, often accompanied by tenderness and discomfort
• Intense headaches
• Reduced desire to eat
• Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation
• Pink, flat rashes on the abdomen and chest, known as rose spots

To prevent typhoid, Dr. Ahuja recommends the following measures:

• Ensure a clean water supply by boiling or purifying water before consumption
• Install water filters at home to remove harmful bacteria and impurities
• Avoid consuming beverages or ice from unknown sources
• Maintain food hygiene by cooking all food, especially meat and eggs, thoroughly before consumption
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly with clean water before eating
• Refrain from consuming raw or undercooked foods, including salads and street food
• Practice good personal hygiene by washing hands frequently with soap and water, especially before eating or preparing food
• Carry alcohol-based hand sanitizers for situations where soap and water are not readily available
• Dispose of waste properly to prevent contamination of surroundings

Dr. Ahuja also emphasizes the importance of vaccination against typhoid fever, especially for those traveling to high-risk areas or during the monsoon season. Booster doses should be followed up as recommended by healthcare providers for continued protection.

In addition to these measures, Dr. Ahuja suggests maintaining personal health by eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, getting enough rest and sleep, and minimizing exposure to rainwater and potential contaminants during heavy rainfall.

“If symptoms of typhoid fever develop, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible,” Dr. Ahuja stresses. “Treatment typically involves antibiotics prescribed by a health expert to eradicate the bacteria. Adequate hydration and rest are also essential components of recovery.”

Historical Context:

Typhoid fever has been a significant public health concern for centuries, with recorded outbreaks dating back to ancient civilizations. In the 19th century, typhoid fever was a major cause of mortality in urban areas, particularly in Europe and North America. The development of antibiotics in the mid-20th century significantly reduced the mortality rate, but the disease remains a significant problem in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene.

In India, where the article is set, typhoid fever is a common public health concern, especially during the monsoon season. The country has a high incidence of typhoid fever, with an estimated 1.3 million cases reported annually. The disease is more prevalent in urban areas, where access to clean water and sanitation is limited.

Summary in Bullet Points:

• Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhii and is primarily transmitted through contaminated food and water. • Symptoms typically appear within 1-3 weeks after exposure and can range from mild to severe, including high fever, tiredness, abdominal pain, headaches, and changes in bowel habits. • To prevent typhoid, Dr. Ahuja recommends: + Ensuring a clean water supply by boiling or purifying water + Installing water filters at home + Avoiding unknown sources of beverages and ice + Maintaining food hygiene by cooking all food thoroughly + Washing fruits and vegetables with clean water + Refraining from consuming raw or undercooked foods + Practicing good personal hygiene + Carrying hand sanitizers + Disposing of waste properly • Vaccination against typhoid fever is recommended, especially for those traveling to high-risk areas or during the monsoon season. • To maintain personal health, Dr. Ahuja suggests: + Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals + Getting enough rest and sleep + Minimizing exposure to rainwater and potential contaminants during heavy rainfall • If symptoms develop, it is crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible, as treatment typically involves antibiotics and adequate hydration and rest.