Typhoid Fever Can Affect Any Part of the Body, Medical Expert Warns
According to Desmond Nii Akwei Allotey, a medical officer at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital, typhoid fever is a serious infection that can affect any part of the human body. In an interview on Joy Prime’s Prime Morning show, he explained that the bacteria responsible for typhoid can spread throughout the organs, including the liver, gall bladder, brain, and lungs, if left untreated.
Mr. Allotey emphasized the importance of early treatment for typhoid fever, as it can lead to complications such as pneumonia and chest infections. He also highlighted the fact that typhoid can be recurrent and severe if not properly managed.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that 9 million people worldwide get sick from typhoid each year, with 110,000 deaths attributed to the disease. Africa, particularly Ghana, has been identified as an endemic zone due to poor water, sewage, and sanitation practices.
While there is a vaccine available for typhoid, Mr. Allotey stressed that it is not the only solution to reducing the burden of the disease. He advised against self-treatment with antibiotics, as this can lead to antibiotic resistance and worsen the infection.
Registered nutritionist Rejoice Asabagna also expressed concerns about the resurgence of typhoid in Ghana. She urged health centers to include typhoid in routine health screenings to raise awareness about the disease and promote early detection and treatment.
Overall, the key message is that typhoid fever is a serious and potentially deadly infection that requires prompt medical attention. By educating the public and healthcare professionals about the causes and symptoms of typhoid, we can work towards reducing its impact on society.
