Drug Resistance Makes Typhoid Costlier in India

A recent study published in The Lancet Regional Health Southeast Asia has revealed a worrying trend: antibiotic-resistant typhoid infections in India are responsible for a large share of the country’s disease-related costs. In fact, these resistant infections contributed to nearly 87 per cent of the total economic burden of typhoid fever in 2023.

The study estimates that typhoid fever costs India around Rs 12,300 crore in a single year, placing a heavy financial strain on families and the healthcare system.

Children under 10 face the highest impact

The findings show that young children carry the greatest burden. Researchers found that children below the age of 10 accounted for more than half of the total costs linked to typhoid.
This is especially concerning because children are more vulnerable to severe illness, require more medical care, and often depend entirely on family support. As a result, treatment expenses and lost income together increase the overall financial pressure on households.

Certain states contribute to over half the national cost

The study highlights that the economic burden is not evenly spread across the country. Instead, six states account for more than half of the total cost:

Maharashtra
Uttar Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh
Telangana
Tamil Nadu
West Bengal

Together, these states contribute about 51 per cent of the national economic burden caused by typhoid fever.

Families bear most of the financial strain

Another key finding is that households are paying the majority of the costs. The study estimates that families covered about 91 per cent of all expenses related to typhoid treatment.
Moreover, around 70,000 families experienced what experts call catastrophic health spending. This means medical costs were so high that they severely affected the family’s ability to afford basic needs.

Why antibiotic resistant typhoid infections in India are so costly

The main driver behind the high costs is resistance to commonly used antibiotics, especially fluoroquinolones. These medicines are usually effective in reducing fever within a few days. However, when the infection becomes resistant, treatment takes longer, becomes more complex, and often requires more expensive alternatives.

As a result, antibiotic-resistant typhoid infections in India lead to:

Longer illness duration
Increased hospital visits
Higher medicine costs
Greater loss of income due to missed work

All these factors together push up the total economic burden.

Study supports vaccine introduction and policy changes

Importantly, the researchers say their findings offer strong evidence to support adding the typhoid conjugate vaccine to India’s national immunisation programme, which is currently under review.

In addition, the study calls for:

Better control of antibiotic resistance
Improved public health funding
Stronger access to affordable treatment

By addressing these areas, policymakers can reduce both the health and financial impact of antibiotic-resistant typhoid infections in India.

A clearer national picture than before

Unlike earlier research, which was limited to small regions, this study provides a comprehensive national estimate. The researchers used data on infection rates, treatment patterns, healthcare access, and both direct and indirect costs.
Overall, the findings underline a critical message: typhoid fever is not just a health issue but also a major economic concern, especially when antibiotic resistance comes into play.

How typhoid spreads and why prevention matters

Typhoid fever spreads through contaminated food and water. Common symptoms include:

High fever
Weakness and fatigue
Headache
Abdominal pain

Because the disease spreads easily in areas with poor sanitation, prevention remains a major challenge in many parts of India.

Conclusion

For families across India, the study highlights the importance of prevention, early treatment, and awareness. Safe drinking water, proper hygiene, and vaccination can play a key role in reducing risk.
At the same time, tackling antibiotic resistance remains essential to lowering both the disease burden and the financial stress it brings.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

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I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.