Paratyphoid fever

**Definition:** A condition caused by an infection with the gram-negative bacteria Salmonella paratyphi. This condition is characterised by an acute sustained fever. The individual may feel weak, have stomach pains, headache, loss of appetite, or a rash of flat, rose-coloured spots. Transmission is by ingestion of contaminated food or water. Confirmation is by identification of Salmonella paratyphi in a faecal or blood sample.