State health officials have identified a case of typhoid fever in a food handler at Purdue University.
They say anyone who ate at the Boiler Bistro, John Purdue Room or the coffee shop Lavazza on the West Lafayette campus Jan. 23-25 might be at risk.
"One thing that's interesting about Typhoid fever is it actually tends to affect younger people more than older adults. So the flu we always talk about how it's worse in older people. This is one that is more common often in younger adults," said Dr. Allison Bartlett with Comer Children's Hospital.
Symptoms include high fever, weakness, stomach pains, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite and sometimes a rose-colored rash. Anyone experiencing such symptoms should see a health care provider immediately. Symptoms typically start eight to 14 days after exposure.
Typhoid fever is a life-threatening illness caused by the salmonella bacteria. Officials believe the food handler at Purdue acquired the illness while traveling abroad. The bacteria can be transmitted through contaminated food or drink.
Once diagnosed, Typhoid fever is easily treated with antibiotics.
CDC.gov: Typhoid Fever
