Antibiotic Resistance in Typhoid Fever: Trends and Challenges in Uganda

Rukundo Sande Kibuuka

Faculty of Science and Technology Kampala International University Uganda

ABSTRACT

Antibiotic resistance in typhoid fever, particularly due to Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi (S. Typhi), has emerged as a critical public health challenge in Uganda. With approximately 11 million global cases reported annually, Uganda remains endemic to typhoid fever, which predominantly affects children and adolescents. The disease is transmitted via the fecal-oral route, with factors such as poor sanitation, inadequate access to clean water, and inadequate sewage disposal exacerbating its spread. Traditional antibiotic treatments, including ampicillin and chloramphenicol, have seen alarming resistance rates ranging from 60% to 80%. The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) strains complicates clinical management, leading to increased healthcare costs and treatment failures. This review examines the trends and challenges associated with antibiotic resistance in typhoid fever in Uganda, including molecular mechanisms of resistance and contributing factors such as overuse of antibiotics, inadequate healthcare infrastructure, and poor sanitation. It emphasizes the need for improved surveillance systems, antimicrobial stewardship, and public health interventions to mitigate the impact of antibiotic resistance. Collaborative efforts among government, healthcare providers, and communities are essential to combat this growing threat and enhance health outcomes.

Keywords: Typhoid fever, Antibiotic resistance, Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, Multidrug-resistant strains, Uganda.

CITE AS: Rukundo Sande Kibuuka. (2025). Antibiotic Resistance in Typhoid Fever: Trends and Challenges in Uganda. Research Output Journal of Biological and Applied Science 5(1):35-39. https://doi.org/10.59298/ROJBAS/2025/513539