Firstly, about the disease

Caused by bacteria - Salmonella typhi, S. paratyphi A, B, or C. It is passed on by food and drink that has become contaminated by the faeces of a carrier or disease sufferer.
It is found worldwide but mostly India, Africa, the Far East and South America where water or food supplies are liable to faecal contamination. Even if you are staying in a 5 star hotel, especially in a poor country, there can be a risk from carriers among the kitchen staff.
Between 1 in 20 and 1 in 50 patients will become carriers after a bout of typhoid fever. Carriers cannot work as a food handler and may spread the disease to others.

Symptoms

High fever, headache, confusion, vague abdominal pain and constipation are the main features, rather than diarrhoea. Paratyphoid fever, caused by S. paratyphi A, B or C, is a milder illness than typhoid.

Treatment:

See a doctor ASAP. The antibiotic ciprofloxacin is usually effective.

Typhoid Vaccine

• Doses required 1
• Booster every 3 years
• Adult dose 0.5ml into the muscle or deep subcutaneous.
• Child dose can be given from 18 months to 2 years (depending on vaccine type)
• vaccine is 70% - 80% effective

Who should have it

Anyone going to an area where food and water are likely to be contaminated. A previous typhoid infection does not mean you are likely to be immune and you should still be vaccinated.