Typhoid fever is a form of food poisoning caused by ingesting contaminated food or drink. Typhoid can spread across the body infecting many organs and, without proper treatment, can be fatal. Typhoid fever can be spread by people who do not wash their hands properly after going to the toilet, and then touching food.
In some holiday destinations, poor levels of sanitation result in infected waste contaminating the water supply. Holidaymakers then drinking the contaminated water can develop Typhoid Fever.
Symptoms of Typhoid Fever include:
- A high temperature
- Headache
- Sickness
- Exhaustion
- Loss of appetite
- A rash of small pink spots
- Confusion
- Stomach Pains
1 in 20 people who survive Typhoid fever without seeking medical treatment will become carriers of the infection. The bacteria will remain in the carrier’s body without any noticeable symptoms and can be spread as normal. It is very important to seek medical advice if any of the above symptoms are experienced as the bacteria can spread, causing damage to organs and tissue, resulting in serious complications such as internal bleeding.
The main preventions of Typhoid Fever include:
- Washing your hands frequently, especially after using the toilet or eating and preparing food. Always carry an alcohol based hand sanitiser.
- Use only bottled water to drink and brush your teeth. Avoid Ice as it will probably have been prepared using tap water.
- Avoid raw fruits and vegetables that may have been prepared with unsafe water or handled unhygienically.
- Avoid foods stored and served at room temperature and avoid street foods.
In the event that you do get ill, Sickholiday advise that you seek medical attention whilst on holiday as this will greatly increase your chances of making an eligible claim upon your return.
If you have fallen ill whilst on an all-inclusive holiday get in touch with a member of our team. We have over 10 years industry experience and we will be happy to help you through the process of claiming back the cost of your holiday plus any additional compensation you may be owed.
