While dengue and typhoid are two completely different and unrelated illnesses, these can cause symptoms similar to one another, often leading to a misdiagnosis. Dr Hari Kishan, MBBS, MD (Internal Medicine), MRCP Consultant General Physician, Kamineni Hospitals, LB Nagar, says, “Understanding their differences, similarities, and effective symptom management is crucial for timely treatment and preventing complications.”
In an interaction with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Kishan provides insight into the two infectious diseases, how they differ and ways to manage them effectively.
What Is Dengue Versus Typhoid Infection?
Before we jump into the differences between dengue and typhoid, let us understand what causes the two infections.
Accordinging to Dr Kishan, dengue fever is a viral infection transmitted primarily by the Aedes mosquito. Prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, the virus has four serotypes, and infection with one provides lifelong immunity to that specific serotype, explains the doctor.
Also Read: Dengue Alert! Natural Mosquito Repellents That Can Prevent Infections
On the other hand, typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi, contracted through contaminated food and water. This infection is common in areas with poor sanitation and hygiene practices.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), dengue poses risk to about half of the world's population, accounting for an estimated 10-40 crore infections each year.
As far as typhoid is concerned, an estimated 1.1–2.1 crore cases and 2 lakh deaths occur worldwide each year, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Many of the symptoms are shared by the two infectious illnesses. These include high fever, weakness, headache, rash, joint and muscle pain. In severe cases, dengue can progress to dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF) or dengue shock syndrome (DSS), both of which can be life-threatening.
How To Distinguish Between The Two
Here are distinctive features that can help differentiate between dengue and typhoid:
Dengue often presents with severe joint and muscle pain, while typhoid fever typically includes abdominal discomfort.
Dengue can cause a rash, usually appearing a few days after the fever starts, whereas a rose-coloured rash is characteristic of typhoid fever.
Bleeding tendencies are more common in dengue, with mild bleeding from the nose or gums, whereas typhoid fever does not typically lead to bleeding issues.
Can You Get Dengue And Typhoid At The Same Time?
While it's possible to contract multiple infections at once, simultaneous infection with both dengue and typhoid fever is relatively rare.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical and Diagnostic Research tested 659 febrile sera samples, of which 141 tested positive for dengue. This included 91 females and 50 males. Of the dengue cases, 11 were co-infected with typhoid fever, shares the study.
Dr Kishan says, "Distinguishing between dengue and typhoid fever is crucial due to their differing treatment approaches. Accurate diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests, and sometimes, imaging. Both diseases can have serious complications if left untreated or mismanaged. It's vital to seek medical attention promptly if you experience persistent high fever and other concerning symptoms."
Also Read: What Time Of Year Is Dengue Most Common In India? Measures To Stay Safe
Managing Symptoms
Here are some strategies to manage symptoms associated with infections:
- Stay well-hydrated with water, oral rehydration solutions, and clear soups to manage fever and prevent dehydration.
- Get plenty of rest to allow your body to recover and fight the infection effectively.
- Over-the-counter antipyretic medications can help lower fever and alleviate discomfort. Consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication.
- Consume a balanced diet that includes easily digestible foods to provide energy and support your immune system.
- Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or if you notice any warning signs, such as severe abdominal pain, persistent vomiting, or bleeding.
The Final Word
According to Dr Kishan, dengue and typhoid fever may share some symptoms, but they are distinct diseases with different causes and treatment approaches.
“Accurate diagnosis, proper management, and early medical intervention are crucial to prevent complications. If you suspect you have either of these infections, consult a healthcare professional for timely and appropriate care,” he concludes.
