A01: Typhoid and paratyphoid fevers

Typhoid and paratyphoid fevers are serious bacterial infections caused by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi, respectively. These illnesses typically spread through consuming food or water contaminated with the feces of an infected person. Once inside the body, these bacteria multiply and spread into the bloodstream, causing symptoms like severe fever, fatigue, headache, stomach pains, and sometimes a rash. People with these conditions may also experience constipation or diarrhea. If left untreated, typhoid and paratyphoid can damage multiple body systems such as the digestive system, and can potentially progress to life-threatening complications. Even after symptoms have subsided, a small number of people can become symptom-free carriers of the bacteria, hence posing a risk of spreading the infection to others.