What is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection caused by Salmonella enterica serotype Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water, and is more common in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to clean drinking water. Without treatment, typhoid can lead to life-threatening complications.

Who is at Risk?
Travelers to regions with high typhoid prevalence are most at risk, particularly those visiting:

• South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh)

• Parts of Southeast Asia, Africa, Central and South America

• Areas with known outbreaks or limited access to safe food and water

Why Vaccinate?
Vaccination reduces the risk of infection but is not 100% protective. It should be combined with careful food and water precautions. Typhoid vaccination is especially recommended for:

• Travelers staying in rural or remote areas

• Long-term travelers or expatriates

• Those visiting friends and relatives (VFR travel)

• Aid workers and healthcare professionals

Available Typhoid Vaccines

There are two main types of typhoid vaccines:

1. Injectable Vi Capsular Polysaccharide Vaccine

• Brand names: Typhim Vi®, Typherix®

• Type: Inactivated (non-live), single-dose injection

• Age: Approved for adults and children over 2 years

• Duration of protection: About 2–3 years

• Booster: Recommended every 3 years for continued risk

2. Oral Live Attenuated Vaccine

• Brand name: Vivotif® (capsules)

• Type: Live, attenuated bacteria (Salmonella Typhi Ty21a)

• Age: Approved for adults and children over 6 years

• Dosage: 4 capsules taken on alternate days over a week

• Duration of protection: Up to 5 years

• Booster: Every 5 years if at continued risk

• Note: Must be taken on an empty stomach and kept refrigerated

Side Effects and Safety

Both vaccines are generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include:

• Mild fever

• Headache

• Soreness at the injection site (injectable)

• Nausea or abdominal discomfort (oral)

The oral vaccine should not be used in immunocompromised individuals or those taking antibiotics at the time.