Typhoid Fever: Symptoms, Risks, and Vaccination for Travellers
Typhoid fever affects over 20 million people worldwide each year. Learn about the risks, symptoms, and how vaccination can protect you while travelling.
Typhoid Fever: Symptoms, Risks, and Vaccination for Travellers
Typhoid fever is a serious bacterial infection that remains a significant health risk for travellers to many parts of the world. Each year, typhoid affects an estimated 21 million people globally, with around 200,000 deaths.
What is Typhoid Fever?
Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water, making it a particular concern for travellers visiting areas with poor sanitation.
How is Typhoid Transmitted?
- Drinking contaminated water
- Eating food prepared by infected handlers
- Raw fruits and vegetables washed in contaminated water
- Contaminated ice
- Shellfish from polluted water
The classic traveller's advice applies: "Boil it, cook it, peel it, or forget it."
Recognising Typhoid Symptoms
Symptoms typically appear 1-3 weeks after exposure and worsen gradually:
Week 1:
- Gradually increasing fever (up to 40°C)
- Headache
- General malaise
- Dry cough
Week 2-3:
- High sustained fever
- Abdominal pain and distension
- "Rose spots" (faint pink rash on chest/abdomen)
- Severe diarrhoea or constipation
- Extreme fatigue
Without Treatment:
- Intestinal perforation
- Internal bleeding
- Life-threatening complications
Where is Typhoid a Risk?
Typhoid vaccination is recommended for travel to:
- South Asia (India, Pakistan, Bangladesh) — highest risk
- Southeast Asia
- Africa
- Central and South America
- The Caribbean
- The Middle East
Risk is particularly high for those:
- Visiting friends and relatives
- Backpacking or budget travelling
- Staying for extended periods
- Visiting rural areas
Typhoid Vaccination Options
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we offer two typhoid vaccine options:
Injectable Typhoid Vaccine (Typhim Vi)
- Doses: Single injection
- Protection begins: 2 weeks after vaccination
- Duration: 3 years
- Suitable for: Ages 2+
Combined Hepatitis A + Typhoid (Viatim)
- Benefit: Two vaccines in one injection
- Ideal for: Travellers needing both (most destinations)
- Duration: Typhoid protection 3 years; Hep A requires booster for long-term protection
Important Considerations
The typhoid vaccine provides approximately 70-80% protection. This means:
✔ Vaccination significantly reduces your risk
✘ It doesn't eliminate risk entirely
You should still:
- Drink only bottled or boiled water
- Avoid ice in drinks
- Eat only thoroughly cooked hot food
- Peel fruits yourself
- Avoid street food unless freshly cooked
- Wash hands frequently
Book Your Typhoid Vaccination
Planning a trip to South Asia, Africa, or Latin America? Typhoid vaccination is strongly recommended.
At Pulteney Pharmacy, we offer same-day appointments for travel vaccinations. Our pharmacists will review your itinerary and advise on all recommended vaccines.
📞 01225 466454 | 📍 35 Great Pulteney Street, Bath