Abstract

Typhoid fever remains a significant public health concern in Uganda, particularly in rural areas where access to
clean water and sanitation facilities may be limited. Understanding the prevalence and associated factors of typhoid
fever can inform targeted interventions to mitigate its impact on public health. This cross-sectional study was
conducted at Kyabugimbi Health Center IV (HCIV) in Bushenyi District, Western Uganda. A structured
questionnaire was administered to patients attending the health center, collecting demographic information and
potential risk factors associated with typhoid fever. Blood samples were collected and tested for the presence of
Salmonella Typhi antigen using Widal test. A total of 1400 patients participated in the study, with an average age
of 1-40 years. The prevalence of typhoid fever among patients attending Kyabugimbi HCIV was found to be 27.15%.
Factors significantly associated with typhoid fever included Poor hand washing practices and poor preparation of
drinking water in communities were significantly associated with increased typhoid fever, indicating the importance
of access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene practices in preventing the transmission of the disease.
The findings of this study highlight the continued burden of typhoid fever in rural areas of Uganda and underscore
the importance of targeted interventions to improve access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene
education. Public health efforts should focus on addressing these factors to reduce the incidence and impact of
typhoid fever in the region.