New Jersey State Board Esthetics Practice Exam

Which bacteria is responsible for causing typhoid fever?

1. Staphylococcus

2. Bacilli

3. Streptococcus

4. Helicobacter

The correct answer is: Bacilli

Typhoid fever is caused by a specific type of bacteria known as Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi, which is classified under the group of bacilli. Bacilli are rod-shaped bacteria, and this shape is characteristic of many bacteria that can cause serious infections, including enteric fevers like typhoid. Using the term "bacilli" generally refers to a class of bacteria rather than a specific one when making a general classification. In this context, identifying Bacilli as the cause indicates an understanding of the morphology of the pathogen, aligning with how certain bacterial classifications can be associated with specific diseases. Other choices listed do not include the correct pathogenic bacteria that specifically cause typhoid fever, which helps strengthen the understanding of bacterial classification and associated infections.