Typhoid vaccination
Typhoid is an infectious disease caused by bacteria, primarily spread through the consumption of contaminated food or water. It is highly contagious and can easily pass from one person to another in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean water. Every year, approximately 18 million people around the globe contract typhoid, with an estimated 400,000 of those cases tragically resulting in death.
Countries which are at risk
Typhoid is most prevalent in regions where sanitation is inadequate, and access to clean water is limited. It is common across many parts of the world, including Africa, Central and South East Asia, Central America and South America.
Travel precautions
We recommend vaccinations for Typhoid, Hepatitis A and Diphtheria, Tetanus and Polio (DTP) for the most common travel destinations outside Europe. If you regularly visit developing countries or stay for extended periods, you should also consider having the Hepatitis B vaccination. Travellers heading to rural areas in developing regions might want to think about the cholera vaccine. The cholera vaccine (Dukoral) can also help reduce the risk of traveller’s diarrhoea caused by E. coli. The Dukoral vaccine is taken orally and is given in two doses, with a week’s gap between each dose.
To minimise the risk of infection, drink only from sealed water bottles or boiled water, and avoid ice or salads that may have been rinsed with tap water. Eat only fruit that can be peeled and avoid uncooked food. Ensure meals are freshly prepared and served piping hot.
Signs and symptoms
Typhoid commonly presents with a high fever, stomach pain, headache, and either diarrhoea or constipation. Without treatment, these symptoms can get worse, which increases the risk of the disease becoming life-threatening.
The vaccination
Anyone travelling to countries where typhoid is prevalent is advised to get vaccinated. The vaccine can be administered either orally (in a course of three capsules) or as an injection. The oral vaccine is about 80% as effective as the injection and is recommended for anyone who can’t have the injection. The typhoid injection provides protection for up to three years.
Availability
Choose your preferred pharmacy to visit their page and enquire about this service, or simply drop in when it is convenient.
