There are two kinds of vaccines available against typhoid. One is a shot which is called an inactivated vaccine; the other is an oral or activated vaccine.

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.