Vaccine for Typhoid Fever

Typhoid fever is a serious illness caused by Salmonella Typhi bacteria, typically spread through contaminated food or water. It is more common in places with poor sanitation, especially in parts of Asia, Africa, and Latin America. Destinations in the Indian subcontinent are of particular concern.  Symptoms may include a high fever, stomach pain, weakness, and loss of appetite. Without treatment, typhoid fever can become life-threatening, but most people recover fully with proper antibiotic care.

Vaccination is one of the best ways to protect yourself from typhoid fever, especially if you’re traveling to areas where it is common. The CDC recommends that travelers to high-risk regions get vaccinated at least one to two weeks before departure. There are two types of typhoid vaccines available in Canada, an injectable and an oral.  Boosters are recommended after two and five years, respectively. While the vaccine isn’t 100% effective, it greatly lowers your risk and should be used along with safe food and water habits while abroad.