What is Typhoid?

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi. It is typically transmitted through contaminated food or water, often in areas with poor sanitation. The infection can lead to serious complications if left untreated, affecting the digestive system and other organs, and may be life-threatening.

Symptoms of Typhoid

The symptoms of typhoid fever can develop gradually and may include:

• High fever
• Weakness or fatigue
• Abdominal pain
• Headache
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation or diarrhoea In severe cases, untreated typhoid can cause intestinal bleeding, perforation, or shock.

Who Should Consider the Typhoid Vaccine?

The typhoid vaccine is recommended for individuals who are traveling to areas where typhoid fever is common, including parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. It is especially important for travelers who will be staying in rural areas or eating food from street vendors, where sanitation may be inadequate. People who work in healthcare or laboratories where exposure to Salmonella typhi is possible may also be advised to get vaccinated.

How Is the Typhoid Vaccine Administered?

There are two types of typhoid vaccines:

• Injectable vaccine: A single dose is given as an injection into the muscle, usually 2 weeks before travel.
• Oral vaccine: A series of four doses are taken over a week, with the last dose completed at least 1 week before travel. The oral vaccine is taken in capsule form, with each dose spaced out over a few days.

Both vaccines provide protection for up to 2 years, after which a booster dose may be necessary for continued protection.

Effectiveness of the Typhoid Vaccine

The typhoid vaccine is effective at reducing the risk of contracting typhoid fever, although no vaccine offers 100% protection. The injectable vaccine provides about 70-80% protection, while the oral vaccine offers about 50-75% protection. The vaccine is not a substitute for other preventive measures, such as drinking safe water, eating thoroughly cooked food, and practicing good hygiene.

Side Effects of the Typhoid Vaccine

The typhoid vaccine is generally safe with few side effects. Common side effects include:

• Pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site (for the injectable vaccine)
• Fever or mild gastrointestinal discomfort (for the oral vaccine) These side effects are usually mild and resolve within a few days. Serious side effects are rare but can include allergic reactions. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

When Should You Get the Typhoid Vaccine?

Ideally, the typhoid vaccine should be administered at least 1-2 weeks before traveling to an area with a high risk of typhoid. This allows enough time for the vaccine to provide protection. If you are already traveling, speak with a healthcare provider to determine if a vaccine is still appropriate or if other preventive measures are needed.

Additional Preventive Measures

While the typhoid vaccine is an important tool, it should be combined with other precautions to reduce the risk of infection:

• Drink only bottled or boiled water
• Avoid ice or unpasteurized dairy products
• Eat food that has been thoroughly cooked and is served hot
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitizers
• Avoid eating raw fruits and vegetables unless you can peel them yourself