What are the treatment options for typhoid fever?

Typhoid fever is an infection that can cause prolonged fever, headache, stomach discomfort, diarrhoea or constipation and marked tiredness. The antibiotic choice depends on clinical assessment, travel or exposure history, allergies and local resistance patterns. A test may be needed because several illnesses can cause a similar fever.

Drink safe fluids if you can, eat small tolerated meals and rest. Avoid preparing food for other people while unwell and follow hygiene advice, because the bacteria can spread through contaminated hands or food.

Take the full antibiotic course exactly as prescribed, even if the fever settles sooner. Do not share leftover antibiotics or use medicine bought without advice. Record your temperature, fluid intake and symptoms, and attend follow-up if requested. Ask when you can safely return to work, school or food handling.

Vaccination can reduce the risk of typhoid before some journeys, but it does not treat an illness that is already present and does not replace food and water precautions.

Seek urgent medical help for confusion, fainting, severe abdominal pain, repeated vomiting, difficulty breathing, blood in stool, very little urine or inability to drink. Contact the treating clinician if fever persists, symptoms worsen, or new symptoms appear after starting antibiotics.

Which antibiotic is suitable for me, and how should I take it? Do I need testing or repeat review? How can I prevent spreading the infection at home? When is vaccination useful for future travel?