Typhoid Fever: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Sumiran Racherla, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 23, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Typhoid Fever?
A primary care doctor can first check a person for typhoid fever, an infection spread by unclean food and water. An infectious disease specialist, a doctor who treats infections caused by germs, often guides treatment, and a travel medicine doctor can advise on vaccines. A direct primary care or concierge doctor can be a first stop for an evaluation and can refer you to a specialist when needed.
What is typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever is an infection that causes fever, diarrhea, and a rash. It is caused by bacteria called Salmonella typhi. The germ lives only in humans. It is also called enteric fever. It is a life-threatening infection.
Symptoms
Symptoms usually begin within 3 weeks of infection, but sometimes take up to 6 weeks. Early symptoms include fever, a general ill feeling, and belly pain.
A high fever of 103°F (39.5°C) or higher and severe diarrhea can occur as the illness gets worse. Other symptoms can include:
- Headache, chills, and a cough.
- Rose spots, which are small red spots on the belly and chest.
- Bloody stools.
- Nosebleeds.
- Confusion, delirium, or seeing or hearing things that are not there.
- Severe tiredness and a slow, weak feeling.
Typhoid fever can cause serious problems such as severe bleeding in the gut, a hole in the intestine, kidney failure, and peritonitis, which is an infection of the lining of the belly.
Causes and who gets it
Typhoid germs spread through contaminated food, drink, or water. After a person swallows the germs, they travel from the intestines into the blood. Some people become carriers, which means they keep releasing the germs in their stools, sometimes for years. Typhoid fever is common in places with poor sanitation and a lack of safe drinking water. It is found in parts of Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. Most cases in the United States are brought in from other countries. Children are at highest risk.
How doctors diagnose it
A doctor does a physical exam and asks about your symptoms. A blood culture in the first week of fever can show the germ. Blood, stool, and urine may all be tested. Other blood tests look for antibodies to the germ. A platelet count may be low. A complete blood count will show a high number of white blood cells.
Treatment
Antibiotics are given to kill the bacteria. More and more typhoid germs resist antibiotics, so your provider checks current guidance before choosing one. Fluids and electrolytes may be given through a vein, or you may drink water with electrolyte packets. You may also get medicine to lower your temperature. It is important to finish all of your antibiotics even if you feel better. Symptoms usually improve in 2 to 4 weeks with treatment. Symptoms may return if the infection was not completely cured.
After treatment, your doctor should test to make sure no typhoid germs remain in your body.
When to see a doctor
Contact your provider if you were near someone with typhoid fever. Also contact your provider if you were in an area with typhoid fever and develop symptoms. Call too if you have had typhoid fever and the symptoms return, or if you have decreased urine output or other new symptoms.
Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have sudden belly pain that keeps getting worse, or black or dark red stool. Also go if you vomit blood or your vomit looks like coffee grounds.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either kind of doctor can do a first evaluation, arrange tests, talk with you about travel vaccines, and refer you to an infectious disease specialist or hospital if needed.
Common questions
How do people get typhoid fever?
People get typhoid fever by eating or drinking something contaminated with Salmonella typhi bacteria. Unclean food and water are the main way it spreads. Carriers can also pass it on through their stools.
How long does typhoid fever last with treatment?
Symptoms usually improve in 2 to 4 weeks with treatment. You may still have a high temperature for around 5 days after starting antibiotics.
Can typhoid fever come back?
Yes, symptoms can return if treatment has not completely cured the infection. This usually happens within 2 weeks of finishing treatment, but it can be at any time. If your symptoms come back, you will need more treatment.
Is there a vaccine for typhoid fever?
Yes, a typhoid vaccine is recommended for travel outside the United States to places where typhoid fever is common. You can still get typhoid after vaccination, so good hygiene still matters.
How can I lower my risk of typhoid fever?
You can lower your risk by drinking only boiled or bottled water and eating well-cooked food. Wash your hands thoroughly before eating. A vaccine is also advised for travel to places where typhoid fever is common.
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Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
