Typhoid Vaccine

Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi, commonly spread through contaminated food or water, leading to symptoms like fever, abdominal pain, and fatigue. Without prompt treatment, it can cause serious complications and can be fatal.  

Most cases of typhoid are found in Asia, though it is also a concern in parts of Africa, Central America, and South America. 

In the UK, most travel-related infections occur among individuals visiting friends and family in the Indian subcontinent, including Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan. 

Typhoid Vaccine  

Vaccination is recommended for travellers at higher risk of exposure, especially in areas with poor sanitation and food hygiene.  

Both oral and injectable vaccines are available, and some combine protection against Hepatitis A. Public Health England advises that children aged 12 months to two years should be immunised if the risk is high. For younger children, strict hygiene measures should be followed. 

To maintain protection, a booster dose should be administered every three years for those at continued risk following the initial injectable dose or a complete course of the oral typhoid vaccine. For the oral vaccine, this consists of an extra three capsules. 

Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccines are often given together as both are spread through contaminated food and water. This combination offers convenient protection for travellers at risk of both diseases.