Atypical Monsoon Downpour and the Potential Rise of Salmonella-oriented Typhoidal Cases in Pakistan: A Call for Proactive Water Supply and Drainage System Overhaul
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Typhoid fever is primarily caused by the Salmonella species and its associated hundreds of serotypes, many of which are prevalent in Pakistan. The country has been in the limelight for the first ever reported cases of highly drug-resistant Salmonella and then its subsequent recovery from many edibles, including meat sources. While efforts are underway to find new anti-microbials for targeting drug-resistant Salmonella, it still remains a concerning issue. Salmonella enterica is a global issue which pertains not only to the health sector but also impacts the socioeconomic status of people in developing countries, such as Pakistan. Although the transmission of Salmonella has also been significantly reported from developed countries as well, developing countries are mostly affected as there are a high number of mortalities and morbidities reported from the underdeveloped countries. This short opinion article highlights the key factors responsible for the increased surge of Salmonella-based typhoidal cases underscoring the importance of a well-maintained sewage system, as well as the socioeconomic importance and surveillance of typhoidal cases, particularly in the rainy season, to mitigate a major issue pertaining to public health.
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References
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