Typhoid Vaccination for International Travel

International Travel and Typhoid Vaccination


What is Typhoid Fever?

Typhoid Fever is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water and it is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. Typhoid Fever is an acute illness infecting about 21.5 million people worldwide. Typhoid Fever can be fatal in up to 10% of reported cases. There has been an increase in the number of drug-resistant strains of Salmonella typhi since 1989. Resistance to all three first-line antibiotics has been detected in Pakistan, India, China and the Arabian Gulf.

Unfortunately, drug resistance is spreading worldwide due to overcrowding, poor sanitation, inadequate control of infections and extensive international travel, trade and population movements. Humans are the sole hosts of the bacteria which is feces-shed from 6 weeks to 3 months after injection. Most common symptoms include fever, anorexia, abdominal discomfort and headaches.

The Typhoid Vaccine

There are two vaccines available to prevent typhoid fever. There is an inactivated Typhoid Vaccine (injectable) and a Live Typhoid Vaccine which is taken orally over the course of 4 doses. The risk of either typhoid vaccination causing serious harm is rare and reactions to either vaccine are generally mild. About one to six percent of people receiving a typhoid vaccination can experience headaches, fever and redness/swelling at the site of injection (for those receiving the shot).

Where to get the Typhoid Vaccine?

The Typhoid vaccination is recommended for international travelers especially if they will be visiting smaller cities or rural areas. Find a Passport Health clinic location and meet with a Travel Medicine Specialist to discuss your travel plans and get vaccinated against Typhoid Fever.

Where does Typhoid Fever occur?

The CDC recommends travelers headed to developing countries, where exposure to contaminated food or water is likely, consider receiving the typhoid vaccine. Over the past 10 years, travelers from the United States to Asia, Africa, and Latin America have been especially at risk.


Source: CDC Vaccine Information Statement (VIS): Typhoid

Source: Crucell Vaccines: Oral Typhoid Vaccine Instructions

So, if you are asking yourself, “What travel shots and vaccinations do I need?” or “Where do I get the Typhoid Vaccine?” schedule an appointment with your local Passport Health travel medicine clinic.