What is Typhoid
How to prevent Typhoid
Who should get a Typhoid vaccine
When to get a Typhoid vaccine
 What is Typhoid
Typhoid (typhoid fever) is a serious disease. It is caused by bacteria called Salmonella Typhi.
Typhoid causes a high fever, weakness, stomach pains, headache, loss of appetite and sometimes a
rash. If it is not treated, it can kill up to 30% of people who get it.
Some people who get typhoid become "carriers," who can spread the disease to others. Generally,
people get typhoid from contaminated food or water.
Typhoid is not common in the U.S., and most U.S. citizens who get the disease get it
while traveling. Typhoid strikes about 21 million people a year around the world and kills about
200,000.
How to prevent Typhoid
Typhoid vaccine can prevent typhoid.
There are two vaccines to prevent typhoid. One is an inactivated (killed) vaccine gotten as a shot and
the other is live, attenuated (weakened) vaccine which is taken orally.
Who should get a Typhoid vaccine
Routine typhoid vaccination is not recommended in the United States, but typhoid vaccine is
recommended for:
- Travelers to parts of the world where typhoid is common. (NOTE: typhoid vaccine is not 100%
effective and is not a substitute for being careful about what you eat or drink)
- People in close contact with a typhoid carrier
- Laboratory workers who work with Salmonella Typhi bacteria
When to get a Typhoid vaccine
Inactivated Typhoid Vaccine (Shot)
- One dose provides protection and should be given at least 2 weeks before travel to allow the vaccine
time to work
- A booster dose is needed every 2 years for people who remain at risk
Live Typhoid Vaccine (Oral)
- Four doses, given 2 days apart, are needed for protection. The last dose should be given at least
1 week before travel to allow the vaccine time to work.
- A booster dose is needed every 5 years for people who remain at risk
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