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Typhoid Vaccine

Typhoid Vaccine

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Typhoid

Typhoid is caused following the ingestion of contaminated food or water infected with the bacterium Salmonella enterica, serotype typhi. Paratyphoid fever is less severe but clinically similar, caused by Salmonella paratyphi.

The vast majority of cases occur in Asia but there are still reports of infections across the world, particularly in Africa and parts of Central & South America.

Vaccination Pricing

£40 Per dose

Signs & Symptoms

Symptoms of typhoid and paratyphoid include:

  • Fever

  • Headache

  • Muscle or joint pains

  • Constipation or diarrhoea

  • Rash

  • Complications include intestinal bleeding and perforation

The Vaccination – Typhoid injection

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
2 – 85 1 7 – 10 days 3 years

The Vaccination – Oral Typhoid

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
6 – 85 1 0 ,2, 4 days 10 days See specialist pharmacist

Hepatits A & Typhoid Combined vaccine

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
16 – 85 1 1 – 2 weeks preferably but anytime ok* Hep A booster only given at 6-12 months after 1st dose

*The vaccine will be at its most effective if it’s given time to become active. Some immunity will be provided if you get it up to the day before travel.

Typhoid, or typhoid fever, is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi. It is a serious and potentially life-threatening illness that primarily affects the gastrointestinal system but can have widespread effects on multiple organs if not treated promptly. Typhoid is most prevalent in areas with inadequate sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water, particularly parts of South Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and Southeast Asia. The bacteria are transmitted via the faecal-oral route, meaning they spread through food or water that has been contaminated with the faeces of an infected person. Once inside the body, the bacteria multiply and spread into the bloodstream, triggering a high fever and a range of other symptoms. Without treatment, complications such as intestinal perforation, severe dehydration, and organ failure can occur. Despite its severity, typhoid is preventable through vaccination, proper hygiene practices, and access to safe food and water. Antibiotic treatment is effective in most cases, but rising antibiotic resistance in some regions has made prevention more important than ever.

Typhoid fever spreads through ingestion of food or water contaminated with the faeces or, less commonly, urine of an infected person. This is especially common in areas where sanitation infrastructure is poor, sewage systems are inadequate, and access to safe drinking water is limited. Travellers to these regions may contract typhoid by consuming raw or undercooked food, drinking unboiled tap water, or eating food from street vendors where hygiene is questionable. In rare cases, typhoid can also spread from chronic carriers—individuals who continue to harbour and shed the bacteria even after recovery. Preventing typhoid involves a combination of strategies. Vaccination is recommended for travellers to high-risk areas, particularly if they plan to stay for extended periods or travel to rural locations. Additionally, preventive measures include drinking bottled or boiled water, avoiding ice in drinks, steering clear of raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits, and practising frequent handwashing with soap, especially before eating or after using the toilet. These combined efforts can significantly reduce the risk of infection.

Symptoms of typhoid fever typically develop one to two weeks after exposure and may initially resemble those of other common illnesses, making early diagnosis challenging without laboratory testing. The hallmark symptom is a sustained high fever, which can reach 39 to 40°C and persist for days or even weeks if untreated. Other common symptoms include weakness, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, constipation or diarrhoea, and loss of appetite. Some individuals may also develop a dry cough, body aches, and a rash of flat, rose-coloured spots on the abdomen or chest. As the illness progresses, patients may experience mental confusion, delirium, and significant weight loss. In severe or untreated cases, complications such as intestinal perforation, internal bleeding, and sepsis may arise, which can be fatal without urgent medical intervention. The severity of symptoms can vary, with children and older adults often experiencing more serious outcomes. Prompt diagnosis and treatment with appropriate antibiotics are essential to a full recovery.

There are two main types of typhoid vaccines available: an injectable inactivated vaccine and an oral live attenuated vaccine. The injectable vaccine (Vi polysaccharide) is given as a single dose and provides protection for around two to three years. The oral vaccine, which is taken in capsule form over several days, provides protection for approximately five years. In both cases, booster doses are recommended for individuals who continue to be at risk due to frequent travel or prolonged stays in endemic areas. The vaccines do not offer 100 percent protection, so it remains important to maintain safe food and water practices even after vaccination. While the vaccine is a critical tool in reducing the risk of infection, it is most effective when combined with personal hygiene measures and vigilance about what one eats and drinks while abroad. Travellers are advised to be vaccinated at least one to two weeks before departure to allow immunity to build fully.

The typhoid vaccine is recommended for travellers visiting regions where typhoid fever is common, particularly in parts of South Asia—including India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal—where the disease is endemic and hygiene standards may vary. It is also advised for travel to countries in Southeast Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America, and parts of the Middle East. Even within these countries, risk can vary depending on location and activities. Urban centres may pose less risk than rural or remote areas, where access to clean water and medical care may be limited. Those planning to stay with local families, work in healthcare or aid sectors, or travel off the beaten track are at higher risk and should be vaccinated. In some cases, proof of vaccination may be required for visas or entry into certain regions, particularly during outbreaks. A travel health consultation is the best way to assess whether typhoid vaccination is necessary based on your specific destination and itinerary.

The typhoid vaccine is generally safe and well tolerated, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. Common side effects of the injectable vaccine include redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site, as well as low-grade fever, headache, or general malaise. These symptoms usually resolve within a day or two. The oral vaccine may cause temporary abdominal discomfort, nausea, or diarrhoea in some individuals. Serious side effects are extremely rare, but allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing can occur and require immediate medical attention. People with compromised immune systems or gastrointestinal conditions may not be suitable candidates for the oral vaccine and should consult a healthcare professional. It is also important to complete the full course of the oral vaccine as directed to ensure adequate protection. As with all vaccines, the benefits of immunisation—particularly for those travelling to high-risk areas—far outweigh the risk of adverse effects.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

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