What are the symptoms of typhoid fever?

Typhoid fever is an infection that can cause a gradually worsening illness. Fever may remain high, with weakness, headache, stomach pain, nausea, and changes in bowel movements. Some people have diarrhoea, while others become constipated. A dry cough or a faint rash can occur. Symptoms overlap with other infections, so the pattern alone cannot confirm typhoid fever; recent travel, food or water exposure, and testing help guide the diagnosis.

Contact a clinician promptly if a persistent fever follows travel to, or residence in, an area where typhoid occurs, especially with bowel symptoms or marked weakness. Drink safe fluids if you can, wash hands carefully, and avoid preparing food for other people until assessed. A clinician may arrange tests and prescribe antibiotic treatment when appropriate. Do not self-treat with leftover antibiotics.

Seek urgent care for confusion, fainting, severe abdominal pain or swelling, repeated vomiting, blood in stool, inability to drink, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. A child, older adult, pregnant person, or anyone with a weakened immune system may need earlier review for fever and gastrointestinal symptoms.

Ask which tests are needed, whether you should stay away from work or food preparation, how to take prescribed antibiotics, and whether typhoid vaccination is suitable for future travel.