Preventive steps urged as XDR typhoid plays havoc in Sindh.

KARACHI -- Expressing concern over the increasing number of extensively drug resistant (XDR) typhoid cases in Pakistan, particularly in Sindh province, eminent pediatrician Prof Dr Iqbal Memon Saturday urged the general public to avoid taking antibiotics or self-medication as bacteria develops resistance against antibiotics. Prof Iqbal explained that XDR typhoid fever is highly infectious illness that affects millions of people in the developing countries and tends to spread in areas with poor sanitation. He said risk of acquiring XDR typhoid in Sindh province is high because of insufficient access to clean water and poor sanitation and hygiene.

He said XDR typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi that spreads through contaminated food and water while high-grade fever, weakness, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, headache, cough and loss of appetite are some common symptoms of the disease. He said:'XDR typhoid fever cases are being reported throughout Sindh province, particularly from...