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Warning-sign checks

Typhoid fever: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Get emergency help for:

    • Sudden, severe, or rapidly worsening abdominal pain
    • A swollen or rigid abdomen
    • Black stool, substantial rectal bleeding, or vomiting blood
    • Confusion, extreme drowsiness, collapse, or difficulty waking
    • Fainting, severe weakness, breathing difficulty, or very little urine

    These symptoms can suggest intestinal bleeding, bowel perforation, severe dehydration, or another serious complication.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if you develop a persistent fever during travel or after returning from an area where typhoid occurs.

    Mention where you traveled, when you returned, what you ate and drank, and whether you received a typhoid vaccine.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a fever with a stiff neck, a rash that does not fade under pressure, or severe headache
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Arrange medical review if:

    • Fever or other symptoms are not improving after treatment starts
    • Symptoms return after you seemed to recover
    • You cannot keep fluids down or have signs of dehydration
    • A close contact has confirmed typhoid and you become unwell
    • You have been asked to complete follow-up cultures

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Typhoid fever. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.