fatal.

Symptoms.--It may begin suddenly or it may come on slowly. If
suddenly, the child develops what appears to be an attack of
indigestion, has fever, vomiting, and is prostrated. In cases developing
slowly the child complains of being tired, has a headache, nausea, and
fever. Vomiting is the suggestive and important symptom.

Diarrhea is usually present. Constipation, however, may accompany the
entire illness. Children may not complain of an excess of gas as do
adults. The abdomen is tender. The typhoid eruption is rarely seen in
children. They lose flesh steadily and then strength diminishes rapidly.
Headache and delirium at night are quite common, and the child is dull
and indifferent, and often in a state of semi-stupor.

In order to tell definitely whether the child has typhoid, it is
necessary to make a blood examination. There are so many intestinal
conditions in children that simulate typhoid, that a blood examination
is imperative.

Treatment.--The patient should remain in bed during the time fever is
present and for a few days after. A fluid diet, preferably milk, is the
most suitable means of nourishing the child. It may be diluted or given
plain according to the age of the patient. Water is essential and should
be given freely.

The discharges of the patient should be thoroughly disinfected in a
solution of carbolic acid, 1-20. All clothing and bed linen should be
boiled for two hours. If the fever remains high cold sponging is
advisable. The attending physician should instruct regarding this
feature, as some children do not stand cold applications well.

The average duration of the disease is about six weeks.

How to Keep From Getting and Spreading Typhoid Fever.--Typhoid fever
is a communicable disease, but, if certain precautions are taken, its
contraction and spread can almost certainly be prevented.

The disease is caused by a specific germ known as the typhoid bacillus.
These germs are found in the excreta (stools and urine) of persons ill
with typhoid fever.

Failure to properly disinfect these excreta and carelessness in the care
of persons ill with typhoid fever lead to the transmission of the
disease from the sick to the well by the infection of water, milk or
food with the typhoid bacillus or by direct contact.

The disease is contracted by taking into the mouth in some form the
discharges from some previous case. There is no other way. It is,
therefore, a disease of filth and som