TYPHOID FEVER VACCINATION

Typhoid (typhoid fever) is a serious disease caused by a bacteria called Salmonella Typhi. Typhoid may bring high fever, fatigue, weakness, stomach pains, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes a rash. It can kill If it not treated. Some people who get typhoid become “carriers,” who can spread the disease to others. In general, people get typhoid from contaminated food or water.

There are two vaccines to prevent typhoid:  

• inactivated (killed) vaccine gotten as a shot. One dose provides protection. It should be given at least 2 weeks before travel to allow the vaccine time to work. A booster dose is needed every 2 years for people who remain at risk.

• live, attenuated (weakened) vaccine which is taken orally (by mouth). Four doses: one capsule every other day for a week (day 1, day 3, day 5, and day 7). The last dose should be given at least 1 week before travel to allow the vaccine time to work. A booster dose is needed every 5 years for people who remain at risk.

Either vaccine may safely be given at the same time as other vaccines.

Who should get typhoid vaccine and when?

Typhoid vaccine is recommended for travelers to parts of the world where typhoid is common.It is important to be careful about what you eat or drink since typhoid vaccine is not 100 % effective. People in close contact with a typhoid carrier or get exposed with the virus through their work, such as laboratory workers are required to take the vaccine.

People should not take or delay the vaccine if they:

• are children younger than 2 years of age. (for inactivated vaccine); children younger than 6 years of age. (for live vaccine)

• has had a severe reaction to a previous dose of this vaccine
• has a severe allergy to any component of this vaccine should not get it.
• are moderately or severely ill at the time the shot is scheduled. Wait until they recover before getting the vaccine.

• have weakened immune system due to HIV, cancers and cancer related treatment.

Ask your doctor for more information.

Side effects

Inactivated typhoid vaccine may bring mild side effects such as fever, headache and redness or swelling at the site of the injection. Aside from fever, headache, and rashes, after taking live typhoid vaccine, you may also experience vomiting, pain, nausea and in some rare cases—rashes. Serious reaction such as hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, and weakness may be brought by allergic reaction. If this happens see your doctor right away or go to the nearest hospital.