Definition

Noun * A specific bacterium, Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, which is the causative agent of typhoid fever in humans. It is a rod-shaped, Gram-negative, motile bacterium that spreads through contaminated food or water.

Usage

• The typhoid bacillus is transmitted via the fecal-oral route.
• Identifying the typhoid bacillus in a stool culture confirms the diagnosis.
• Public health measures focus on preventing the spread of the typhoid bacillus.

Examples

• The laboratory report confirmed the presence of the typhoid bacillus.
• Sanitation systems are crucial for controlling the typhoid bacillus.
• She was infected after ingesting water contaminated with the typhoid bacillus.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in medical, microbiological, and public health contexts to specify the etiological agent, distinguishing it from other disease-causing bacteria.
• It can be used metonymically to represent the disease itself in technical discussions (e.g., "regions where the typhoid bacillus is endemic").

Variants and Related Words

• Salmonella Typhi: The formal taxonomic name for the typhoid bacillus.
• Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi: A more precise scientific designation.
• Typhoid fever: The disease caused by this bacterium.

Synonyms

• The causative agent of typhoid fever

Related Phrases

• Carrier of the typhoid bacillus: An individual who harbors and sheds the bacteria without showing symptoms, acting as a reservoir for infection.
  • Famous historical example: "Typhoid Mary" Mallon was an asymptomatic carrier of the typhoid bacillus.

Noun

1. a form of salmonella that causes typhoid fever