Most people get typhoid fever by eating or drinking food or water that has been contaminated by people with the disease, including by those who do not have any symptoms. Raw fruits and vegetables, milk, and shellfish are the types of foods most often associated with illness. People with this disease may experience mild or severe symptoms. The symptoms of typhoid fever may include fever, headache, general discomfort, lack of appetite, and a dry cough. The heart beat slows and the spleen enlarges.
Some people get rose spots on the trunk of the body.
Constipation or diarrhea may occur. Some people do not have any symptoms. The symptoms may appear from 3 days to 3 months after exposure, with a usual range of 1-3 weeks. The disease may be spread to others as long as the bacteria remain in the stool. Some people with typhoid fever may carry the bacteria for weeks to years.