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Millions of Typhoid Cases Hit India; Antibiotic Resistance Worsens
8 Jan
Summary
- Estimated 49 lakh typhoid cases and 7,850 deaths occurred in India in 2023.
- Fluoroquinolone-resistant strains caused six lakh of the 7.3 lakh hospitalisations.
- Delhi, Maharashtra, and Karnataka show the highest typhoid burden and resistance.
A recent study estimates that India recorded approximately 49 lakh cases of typhoid fever and 7,850 deaths in 2023. Delhi, Maharashtra, and Karnataka together account for nearly 30% of the national typhoid burden, also exhibiting the highest rates of fluoroquinolone-resistant infections.
Antimicrobial resistance, particularly to fluoroquinolones, is a critical driver of hospitalizations, with six lakh of the total 7.3 lakh cases attributed to this resistance. While resistance to some antibiotics remains low, fluoroquinolone resistance has shown a concerning upward trend, peaking at 94% in 2017.
Researchers highlight the need for prompt action, suggesting Delhi, Maharashtra, and Karnataka as priority states for typhoid conjugate vaccine introduction. They also emphasize that antimicrobial resistance control measures are crucial for managing the escalating crisis effectively.
