El Salvador: High rates of typhoid fever /update 2

Event

According to the Salvadorian Ministry of Health, 644 cases of typhoid fever were detected across the country between January 1 and May 26, including one fatality. This is an abnormally high number (to compare, 340 cases were reported during the same period in 2017) and rates appear to be on the rise. The highest rates have been reported in the capital San Salvador, Santa Ana, Chalatenango, Apopa, Mejicanos, and Soyapango.

Context

Typhoid fever is a potentially fatal bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi, usually contracted via ingestion of contaminated food or water. Symptoms of the disease can include high fever, diarrhea, rash, headache, and abdominal pain. Vaccines are available for specific types of typhoid fever.

The bacteria is most often found in unpasteurized dairy products (e.g. milk, cheese, ice cream), shellfish, uncooked vegetables, eggs, and tap water.

Advice

Individuals in El Salvador are advised to only consume bottled or treated water, eat thoroughly-cooked foods, disinfect and/or peel raw fruits and vegetables, wash hands frequently, and seek medical attention if experiencing the above symptoms.