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- Typhus - meaning & definition
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Translate files Typhus
/ˈtaɪfəs/
Meaning & Definition
noun
A group of infectious diseases caused by bacteria of the genus Rickettsia, typically transmitted by lice or fleas, characterized by fever, rash, and often severe complications.
During the war, many soldiers suffered from typhus due to poor sanitary conditions.
Specifically, epidemic typhus, a serious form of typhus resulting from Rickettsia prowazekii, which is transmitted by body lice.
Epidemic typhus outbreaks have historically been associated with overcrowding and lack of hygiene.
A less severe form, known as murine typhus, transmitted by fleas from rats and mice.
Murine typhus is often overlooked, yet it affects several regions where rodent infestations are common.
Etymology
From Greek 'typhos', meaning 'smoke' or 'haze', referring to the delirious state of patients.
Common Phrases and Expressions
typhus epidemic
A widespread outbreak of typhus in a particular area.
typhus fever
Refers to the fever associated with typhus infection.
Related Words
rickettsiosis
A group of diseases caused by Rickettsia bacteria, including typhus.
epidemic
A widespread occurrence of an infectious disease in a community at a particular time.