Typhoid fever in the Northern Transvaal national states. An approach to an epidemiological quandary.

The serious nature of the high incidence rate of typhoid fever in the Northern Transvaal national states is discussed. It is recommended that epidemic areas be chosen as models to identify modes of transmission from carrier and other sources. In the endemic areas this approach is considered to be of limited value owing to geographical and social conditions. Education of the populace in basic hygiene at the primary and secondary school levels, followed by improvement in the health services and vaccination programmes, is recommended as suitable for reducing the incidence of the disease until potable water supplies and sewage disposal facilities can be provided.