AEGiS-BAR: First case of sexually transmitted typhoid reported

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2001. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

First case of sexually transmitted typhoid reported

Bay Area Reporter - May 11, 2001
Liz Highleyman

Last month, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported for the first time that typhoid fever can be transmitted sexually. The announcement was made at a sexually transmitted disease conference in Atlanta. CDC officials urged all people with typhoid to avoid sexual contact until they are successfully treated and clear of the disease.

Typhoid fever is caused by a type of salmonella bacteria, and is usually contracted by consuming food or water contaminated with fecal material.

The disease is rare in the U.S., but common in some developing countries.

Symptoms include fever, abdominal cramps, headache, and sometimes a skin rash. Typhoid can be treated with antibiotics, although some people remain carriers even after treatment. Untreated typhoid may be fatal.

In the case reported in April, a Cincinnati man who contracted typhoid during a visit to Puerto Rico transmitted the disease to seven other men, most likely through oral-anal contact, according to CDC epidemiologist Megan Reller. Reportedly none of the men shared food or drink.

A vaccine for typhoid fever is available, and is often recommended for those traveling to countries where the disease is widespread.

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