Typhoid Vaccine

What is Typhoid?

Typhoid fever is a serious systemic infection caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It is spread through contaminated food and water, particularly in areas with poor sanitation. Without treatment, it can be life threatening.

Symptoms include a sustained high fever, headache, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea and a characteristic rose-coloured rash. The illness can last several weeks and complications can include intestinal perforation and septicaemia.

Do I need this vaccine?

Typhoid vaccination is recommended for travellers to parts of South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Central and South America where the disease is endemic, particularly those eating and drinking outside tourist areas.

How many doses do I need?

Typhoid vaccine is available as a single injection or as an oral course of capsules. Both provide good protection but neither is 100% effective — food and water hygiene precautions should still be followed.