Most people return from travel with memories and souvenirs, but a growing number come back with something less welcome. UKHSA figures show over 700 travel-associated typhoid and paratyphoid cases were reported in 2024, highlighting how common these infections have become for UK travellers. If you have noticed lingering fatigue or weight loss since your trip, it may be worth exploring whether typhoid could be the reason.
What causes typhoid, and how does it spread?
Typhoid causes illness when the Salmonella Typhi bacteria enter the body, usually through contaminated food or water. Once inside your system, the infection spreads through the bloodstream and affects various organs.
How is typhoid commonly transmitted?
Typhoid fever spreads through:
- Contaminated drinking water
- Food handled by someone carrying the bacteria
- Poor sanitation in high-risk regions
The condition is more common in areas where clean water access is limited, but travellers from the UK can also catch it when visiting affected countries.
What are early typhoid symptoms?
Many people first experience:
- Persistent high fever
- Headaches
- Stomach pain
- Loss of appetite
These early symptoms can be mistaken for other infections, which is why awareness is important.
Does typhoid cause weight loss and weakness?
Yes. Typhoid fever often leads to weight loss and weakness because the infection disrupts digestion, reduces appetite, and increases your body’s energy demands. Typhoid weight loss is most noticeable when the illness is left untreated for several days.
Why does typhoid cause weight loss?
Weight loss usually happens due to:
- Reduced appetite
- Ongoing fever that burns extra energy
- Poor nutrient absorption
- Nausea or diarrhoea linked to the infection
Together, these factors make it difficult for your body to maintain its usual weight.
Why does typhoid cause weakness?
Weakness develops because your body is fighting a serious infection. Dehydration, fever, and reduced food intake lower your energy levels. As the illness progresses, tiredness may worsen until treatment begins.
How long do weakness and weight loss last?
Once you begin the recommended typhoid treatment, energy levels typically start to improve within a few days. Weight recovery may take a little longer as your appetite gradually returns to normal.
What other typhoid symptoms should you look out for?
Typhoid symptoms can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same pattern. However, common signs include:
What are the typical symptoms of typhoid fever?
- Persistent fever that rises over several days
- Stomach discomfort and abdominal pain
- Constipation or diarrhoea
- Loss of appetite
- Skin rashes in some cases
Identifying symptoms early can help prevent complications.
What severe symptoms require urgent attention?
In rare cases, typhoid can lead to:
- Severe abdominal swelling
- Confusion
- Internal bleeding
These symptoms need immediate medical evaluation.
How is typhoid treated, and how soon will you recover?
Typhoid treatment usually involves a course of prescribed antibiotics and supportive care to manage symptoms. Early treatment helps prevent complications and reduces how long the illness lasts.
What does standard typhoid treatment involve?
Treatment may include:
- Antibiotics to clear the infection
- Fluids to prevent dehydration
- Rest to help your body recover
Most people start feeling better within a week of treatment, although tiredness may continue for a short while.
Can typhoid return after treatment?
If the full treatment course is not completed, or if the infection becomes resistant to certain antibiotics, typhoid can return. Completing the entire course as directed is essential.
When should you speak to a pharmacist?
If you have recently travelled to a high-risk country and have a persistent fever, stomach problems, or other early signs of typhoid infection, seek advice from our pharmacists as soon as possible.
How can the typhoid vaccine help protect you?
The typhoid vaccine offers reliable protection, especially for people travelling to parts of the world where the illness is more common. While it does not guarantee full immunity, it significantly reduces your risk of severe infection.
Who should consider getting the typhoid vaccine?
You may need vaccination if you are:
- Travelling to high-risk areas
- Staying with local residents abroad
- Visiting rural regions with limited access to clean water
How long does the vaccine last?
Protection usually lasts around three years, depending on which typhoid vaccine you receive. Boosters may be recommended for repeat travel.
Where can you get trustworthy advice and protection for typhoid in the UK?
If you are concerned about typhoid symptoms, recent weight loss, or persistent weakness, or you are planning to travel to an area where typhoid fever is common, professional advice can make a big difference. Our pharmacists can guide you on typhoid causes, safe travel planning, and vaccination options to keep you protected.
Book your appointment with our experts at Touchwood Pharmacy for typhoid vaccination and personalised travel health guidance.
FAQs
Can typhoid cause sudden weight loss even if I am eating normally?
Yes. Typhoid can cause sudden weight loss even if you try to eat regular meals. The infection affects how your body absorbs nutrients and increases energy use because of ongoing fever, which can lead to noticeable weight loss despite a normal diet.
How long does weakness last after recovering from typhoid fever?
Weakness often continues for one to three weeks after the infection clears. Your body needs time to rebuild strength, restore nutrition levels, and recover from dehydration. Rest, hydration, and a gradual return to normal eating help speed up this recovery.
Is weight loss from typhoid reversible once treatment starts?
Yes. Once typhoid treatment begins and symptoms settle, your appetite usually improves, and weight gradually returns. Recovery may take a few weeks depending on how severe the illness was and how much weight was lost.
Should I worry if I am still losing weight after finishing typhoid treatment?
Ongoing weight loss after treatment is not typical and should be checked. It may suggest incomplete treatment, antibiotic resistance, or another underlying condition. Speak to a pharmacist for guidance if weight continues to drop.
Can typhoid cause long-term health issues like lasting fatigue or weakness?
Most people recover fully, but a small number may experience long-term tiredness or weakness if the infection was severe or treatment was delayed. Staying hydrated, eating small frequent meals, and completing the full antibiotic course reduce the risk of long-lasting symptoms.
Does the typhoid vaccine help prevent weakness and weight loss from infection?
Yes. The typhoid vaccine reduces your chances of catching the infection, which means it also prevents typhoid-related weakness, fever, and weight loss. While no vaccine offers 100 per cent protection, it significantly lowers your risk of severe illness.
