Modifiable Risk Factors and Complications of Enteric Fever in a Tertiary Care Hospital in Bangladesh

Background: Enteric fever, primarily caused by Salmonella Typhi and Paratyphi, remains a significant public health issue in Bangladesh. Objective: The study's objective was to identify modifiable risk factors for enteric fever and assess related complications in patients admitted to a tertiary hospital in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted between January 2022 and January 2023, involving 200 patients diagnosed with enteric fever. Data on demographics, symptoms, diagnostic results, and complications were collected. Clinical investigations, including the Widal test and blood cultures, were used to assess risk factors and complications. Results: The majority of patients (52%) were aged 18-22, and 57% were female. Fever was observed in all cases, with common symptoms such as headache (94%), myalgia (84%), and constipation (57%). The Widal test was positive in 65% of cases, while blood cultures were positive in 18%. Key risk factors included contaminated food and water (72.5%), malnutrition (54.5%), and poor sanitation (42.5%). Complications were present in 39.5% of cases, with febrile seizures (20.25%) and enteric encephalopathy (12.66%) being the most frequent. Conclusion: Contaminated food and water, malnutrition, and poor sanitation are modifiable risk factors for enteric fever in Bangladesh.