Prevalence of typhoid infections in adult patients attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV in Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: The disease, caused by Salmonella Typhi and Salmonella Paratyphi, is transmitted mainly through the fecal–oral route and contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of typhoid infections and associated risk factors among adult patients attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV in Wakiso District.   Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 72 adult patients aged 18 years and above presenting with signs and symptoms suggestive of typhoid infection between March and April 2025. Participants were selected using simple random sampling. Data on socio-demographic characteristics and risk factors were collected using structured questionnaires, while venous blood samples were tested using typhoid rapid diagnostic strips based on immunochromatographic principles. Data were analyzed using Microsoft Excel and presented in tables and figures.   Results: The Overall prevalence of typhoid infection was 63.9% (46/72). Infection was highest among participants aged 18–26 years (29.2%), followed by 26–35 years (19.4%), and lowest among those above 46 years (4.2%). Of the 72 participants, 37 (51.4%) were female, and 35 (48.6%) were male, 55.6% had secondary education, and 48.6% were employed. Participants who did not wash their hands with soap had higher infection rates (30/36), and those consuming untreated water accounted for 26.4% of infections. Risk was also higher among individuals eating unwashed fruits (55.6%) and those leaving food uncovered (23.6%).   Conclusion: The study revealed a high prevalence of typhoid infection among adults attending Kajjansi Health Centre IV, with young adults being the most affected. Poor sanitation, unsafe food handling, and inadequate water treatment practices were major associated factors.   Recommendations: Community health education should be strengthened to promote proper hygiene, safe food handling, and household water treatment. Local authorities should enforce sanitation standards, including the provision of latrines and waste disposal facilities.