Question

Which test confirms typhoid fever? Describe its symptoms.

Answer 1

Step 1: Identifying the Test:
Typhoid fever, caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi, is confirmed using the Widal test, which detects specific antibodies produced against the bacterium in the patient's blood serum.

Step 2: Describing the Symptoms:
The disease presents with sustained high fever (around 39-40 degrees Celsius), body weakness, abdominal (stomach) pain, headache, and loss of appetite.

Step 3: Complication:
In untreated or severe cases, the bacteria can cause intestinal perforation, which is a serious, potentially fatal complication.

Final Answer:
\(\text{Widal test confirms typhoid; symptoms include sustained high fever, weakness, stomach pain and headache}\)