1. Why Get Vaccinated?

Typhoid fever is a serious, and often life-threatening, disease spread by the bacteria Salmonella Typhi. Both actively ill individuals and carriers of the bacteria can spread typhoid. Contaminated food or drink is often the culprit, enabling the bacteria to multiply and spread into the bloodstream. Symptoms include persistent high fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache, diarrhea or constipation, cough, and loss of appetite.

If left untreated, typhoid fever can cause fever for weeks or even months. Up to 30% of untreated individuals can die from complications. As drug-resistant strains of typhoid bacteria increase worldwide, the importance of vaccination becomes even more critical.

Typhoid fever is common in regions like East and Southeast Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and Central and South America. Although uncommon in the United States, it remains a global health concern.

2. The Vaccine

Two types of vaccines can prevent typhoid fever: an inactivated (killed) vaccine and a live, attenuated (weakened) vaccine. Your healthcare provider can help determine which type is best for you.

The inactivated typhoid vaccine is administered via an injection and recommended for people aged 2 years and older. One dose should be administered at least two weeks before travel, with repeated doses every two years for those remaining at risk.

The live typhoid vaccine is an oral vaccine, suitable for individuals 6 years and older. Four capsules are taken—one every other day. The last dose should be at least a week before travel. A booster is required every five years for those at risk. Importantly, live typhoid vaccine capsules must be stored in a refrigerator.

Typhoid vaccination is recommended for travelers to regions where typhoid is common, people in close contact with a typhoid carrier, and laboratory workers handling Salmonella Typhi bacteria.

3. Talk with Your Healthcare Provider

Before getting vaccinated, it's essential to inform your healthcare provider if the person to be vaccinated has had an allergic reaction to a previous typhoid vaccine dose, has a weakened immune system, is pregnant or breastfeeding, or has recently taken antibiotics or anti-malarial drugs. Your healthcare provider may decide to postpone the typhoid vaccination to a future visit in certain cases.

Individuals with minor illnesses, like a cold, may still be vaccinated, while those moderately or severely ill should wait until they recover.

4. Risks of a Vaccine Reaction

Reactions to the inactivated typhoid vaccine may include pain, redness, or swelling at the injection site, fever, headache, or general discomfort. Reactions to the live typhoid vaccine may include fever, headache, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.

Fainting may occur after vaccination. Notify your provider if you feel dizzy, experience vision changes, or have ringing in the ears. Like any medicine, vaccines carry a remote chance of causing a severe allergic reaction, other serious injuries, or death.

5. What If There is a Serious Problem?

Severe allergic reactions could occur after the vaccinated person leaves the clinic. Signs of a severe allergic reaction include hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness. If these signs occur, call 9-1-1 and get to the nearest hospital immediately.

For any other signs that concern you, call your healthcare provider. Adverse reactions should be reported to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS). Either your healthcare provider can file this report, or you can do it yourself. Keep in mind that VAERS staff does not give medical advice. They collect data on adverse reactions to improve the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.