Paratyphoid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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paratyphoid
[ˈpærətaɪfɔɪd ]
Definition
medical condition
Paratyphoid is an infectious disease caused by specific strains of Salmonella bacteria, primarily Salmonella paratyphi A, B, and C. It is similar to typhoid fever but is generally considered to be less severe. The disease is characterized by symptoms such as prolonged fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal issues. Infection typically occurs through the consumption of contaminated food or water. Vaccines are available for prevention, but treatment usually involves antibiotics.
Examples of usage
- He was diagnosed with paratyphoid after traveling to an area with poor sanitation.
- Paratyphoid is spread through contaminated food and water sources.
- The hospital reported several cases of paratyphoid this season.
- Health officials are investigating an outbreak of paratyphoid in the city.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Health Impact
- Paratyphoid fever affects the digestive system and can lead to severe symptoms, including high fever and diarrhea.
- It is less common than typhoid fever but can still pose significant health risks in regions with poor sanitation.
- Vaccination is available for typhoid but not specifically for paratyphoid, requiring careful food and water hygiene.
History
- The bacterium causing paratyphoid was first identified in the early 1900s, leading to increased understanding of foodborne illnesses.
- During WWI, outbreaks of paratyphoid fever highlighted the importance of sanitation in military camps.
Cultural Perception
- In many regions, paratyphoid fever is seen as a 'forgotten' disease due to its lower profile compared to other infectious diseases.
- Public health campaigns often focus on typhoid fever, sometimes neglecting the similar risks presented by paratyphoid.
Global Distribution
- Outbreaks of paratyphoid are more prevalent in developing countries with inadequate water supply and sanitation.
- Travelers to endemic areas are advised to follow strict hygiene practices to avoid infections.
Origin of 'paratyphoid'
Main points about word origin
- 'Paratyphoid' combines 'para,' meaning 'beside' or 'similar to,' with 'typhoid,' indicating it's related to that type of fever.
- The term emerged in medical literature in the early 20th century as doctors began differentiating between types of fevers.
The term 'paratyphoid' is derived from 'para-', meaning 'beside' or 'beyond', and 'typhoid', which relates to typhus or typhoid fever, a similar, but more serious, bacterial infection. The prefix 'para-' was first applied to distinguish this less severe form of illness from typhoid fever, which is caused by Salmonella typhi. Paratyphoid fever was recognized as a distinct clinical entity in the late 19th century, particularly as more was learned about the transmission and pathology of typhus-like infections. The discovery of the causative agents in the Salmonella genus in the early 20th century helped clarify the relationship between typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, solidifying the latter's place in the medical lexicon.