Typhoid is generally not common in industrialized regions, such as the United States or Canada.  However it is common in developing parts of the world, such as Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia where the water supply is not sanitized for safe drinking. Typhoid fever is caused by the bacteria named Salmonella Typhi which is ingested through contaminated water or food.

Even if you are not traveling to countries where typhoid is a threat, immunization may be necessary if you are going to be around someone who has contracted typhoid fever as it’s highly contagious. This is essential if you are a health care worker or work with young children.

The symptoms that show you may be suffering from this disease include the following: weakness, high fever, headaches, stomach pain, and at times a rash. The typhoid disease has a fatality rate of 30% if it is left untreated, however, it can likely be treated with antibiotics and the uncomfortable symptoms should begin to subside within 2 to 3 days.

Just because you receive a typhoid vaccine does not mean you are no longer susceptible. While it is a good measure to prevent it, it is not 100% protection. That is why it’s extremely important to practice vigilance when out of the country in terms of avoiding risky foods and beverages.

You can check current travel health information at the Center for Disease Control Travelers’ Site (CDC).  The information provided by the CDC is essential if you are traveling to a developing country.  In addition, you should contact your doctor and discuss a vaccination schedule way in advance, should you need multiple shots.

You may read additional information about a typhoid vaccination schedule here.

The inactivated vaccine is not to be given to children who are younger than two-years-old. This should be received around two weeks before you plan on traveling to a location where this shot is required. Getting another shot in two years will have you protected against typhoid again.

The other type of vaccine would be the oral vaccine, which is an activated vaccine. This typhoid vaccine is actually a live part of the typhoid disease that has been weakened. It is not to be taken by a child who is younger than six-years-old. Given in four total doses that will be taken two days apart, you should finish the last dose around a week before traveling. This should be renewed every five years.

It is important to emphasize that just because you receive the vaccination, it does not mean you are 100% immune. Caution must still be taken when eating and drinking in foreign countries where typhoid is prevalent.  This means drinking bottled water, avoiding uncooked fish and shellfish, and eating only cooked food in general.

You may read additional information about Typhoid and who may  need a Typhoid Vaccine here.