Isolation of Salmonella typhi from high vaginal swab in a case of septic abortion

Salmonella Typhi can be a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in pregnant females with adverse outcomes. Risk of infections increases manifold during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and immunological phenomena. S. Typhi has the ability to cross placenta (vertical transmission) resulting in miscarriage, stillbirth or premature labour. We report a case of a pregnant female who was admitted to emergency department with fever, missed abortion and hypovolaemic shock. Subsequently, S. Typhi was isolated from her high vaginal swab and blood cultures. Follow-up cultures were negative for S. Typhi, and the patient was discharged after 10 days. The possibility of salmonellosis should be considered if a pregnant woman residing in an endemic area presents with high-grade fever. Furthermore, it should be promptly treated to prevent foetal loss.