Which bacterium is responsible for causing typhoid fever?

The bacterium responsible for causing typhoid fever is Salmonella Typhi. This organism is a specific serotype of the Salmonella species, which is known for its ability to invade the intestinal lining and enter the bloodstream, resulting in systemic illness.

Typhoid fever is characterized by a combination of sustained fever, abdominal pain, and gastrointestinal symptoms, which can become severe if left untreated. The infection is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water, making hygiene and sanitation critical factors in prevention. Understanding the specific pathogen that causes typhoid fever, such as Salmonella Typhi, is crucial for public health measures and interventions aimed at controlling outbreaks and ensuring safe food and water practices.

In contrast, Escherichia coli primarily causes a range of gastrointestinal illnesses, Campylobacter jejuni is a common cause of bacterial gastroenteritis often linked to poultry, and Clostridium difficile is associated with antibiotic-related diarrhea and colitis. Each of these bacteria is linked to different diseases and modes of transmission, further highlighting the importance of accurately identifying pathogens in public health and clinical contexts.