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Multi-drug Resistant Typhoid in Pakistan

18 Jul 2017

On 14 July 2017, media reported 250 children have been affected by multi-drug resistant typhoid (MDR) typhoid in Hyderabad and Karachi, according to Dr Farah Qamar, Assistant Professor of Pediatrics at the Aga Khan University Hospital, Karachi.

In Karachi the affected areas are Lyari, North Karachi, Gulshan-e-Hadeed, Gulistan-e-Jauhar, Malir and Ibrahim Haydri.

Areas in Hyderabad affected include Bhittai Colony, Qasimabad and Wehdat Colony.

Advice to travellers

Typhoid is spread by the faecal oral route, precautionary measures should therefore be taken to avoid consumption of potentially contaminated drinks, drinking water and ice and to ensure food is uncontaminated or cooked thoroughly.

Personal hygiene when eating and drinking is also important including hand washing prior to eating and using clean plates, cups and utensils.

When to consider vaccination

Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high risk areas where food and water may be contaminated.

Travel to low risk areas - vaccination may be recommended only to those staying in conditions with poor sanitation and unable to maintain their own hygiene precautions e.g. hand hygiene and water purification.

For further information see Typhoid.