Age and Sex as Factors in the Development of the Typhoid Carrier State, and a Method for Estimating Carrier Prevalence

Abstract

Age and sex are of importance in the development of the typhoid carrier state since typhoid patients over 30 yrs. of age became chronic carriers 9 times as frequently as did younger patients and the rate of development of the carrier state at all ages was 2.1% among [male] cases, as compared with 3.8% among [female] cases. Approx. 16% of the [female][female] who developed typhoid between ages 40 and 49 became chronic carriers. The rate of bacteriological cure varied inversely with age. A modified life table applied to the typhoid experience of New York State, exclusive of Now York City, showed an estimated carrier prevalence on Jan. 1. 1940, of approx. 2.500 carriers under 80 yrs. of age, or 42 carriers per 100.000 population. It is highly probable that there will be a rapid decline in carrier prevalence. In 40 yrs. it is estimated that the carrier prevalence will decrease to about 200. 419, or 17%. of the estimated carriers in the state were under supervision on Jan. 1, 1940.