TYPHUS Meaning and
Definition
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Typhus is an infectious disease caused by strains of bacteria belonging to the genus Rickettsia. It is characterized by sudden onset, high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, and a rash. The term "typhus" encompasses several different types of the disease, including epidemic typhus, murine typhus, and scrub typhus, each caused by different species of bacteria and transmitted by different vectors.
Epidemic typhus, also known as louse-borne typhus, is typically spread by body lice. It is often associated with crowded and unsanitary living conditions. Outbreaks of this form of typhus have historically occurred during wars, famines, and other humanitarian crises.
Murine typhus, also called endemic typhus or flea-borne typhus, is transmitted to humans through fleas. Rats and other rodents are the primary hosts responsible for spreading this form of typhus. It is commonly found in urban areas and warmer climates.
Scrub typhus, also known as chigger-borne typhus, is transmitted by chiggers (mites) commonly found in rural areas. This form of typhus is prevalent in the Asia-Pacific region but can also be found in other parts of the world.
The severity of typhus can vary, with complications arising in severe cases if left untreated. Antibiotics are the primary treatment for typhus infections. Prevention strategies include personal hygiene, vector control, and vaccination where available.
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Typhus fever, an acute infectious and contagious disease, marked by high temperature, great mental and physical depression, and a macular and petechial eruption, lasting about two weeks. There are no specific lesions. The disease occurs where large numbers are crowded together in poorly ventilated quarters and appears to be disappearing as municipal hygiene advances.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
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In med., a very fatal form of fever, characterised by much depression, the appearance of an eruption on the skin, and a tendency to putrefaction.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for TYPHUS
Etymology of TYPHUS
The word "typhus" originates from the Greek language. It comes from the Greek word "typhos", meaning "smoke" or "cloud". This is because the disease was initially associated with a state of confusion or stupor, as well as with the noxious fumes believed to cause it. The term "typhus" was first coined in the late 18th century to describe a group of infectious diseases characterized by high fever, delirium, and rash. It has been used to refer to various forms of epidemic typhus, as well as other related diseases such as murine typhus and scrub typhus.
Similar spelling words for TYPHUS
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