Typhoid vaccination: what travellers should know

It may be advised for people visiting places where typhoid is present, especially when sanitation may be limited or there will be close contact with local communities. The appropriate vaccine and timing depend on age, health, destination and travel plans.

Typhoid fever is caused by Salmonella Typhi bacteria, usually acquired through contaminated food or water. Vaccination trains the immune system to recognise part of the organism. It cannot cause typhoid when an inactivated injectable vaccine is used.

Protection is not complete and can decrease over time. A clinician uses the destination, type of accommodation, planned activities, medical history and previous vaccination record to decide whether vaccination or a later booster is appropriate.

Arrange a travel-health appointment before departure and bring your itinerary and vaccination record. Mention pregnancy, immune-system conditions, allergies, current fever and any previous reaction to a vaccine. The clinician can select a suitable formulation and explain when it should be given.

During travel, drink sealed or properly treated water, avoid ice when its source is uncertain, eat food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot, wash or peel produce yourself, and clean your hands before eating. These habits also reduce exposure to other infections spread through food and water.

Mild soreness, redness, headache or feeling unwell can occur after vaccination and generally settles. Seek urgent care for breathing difficulty, facial or throat swelling, widespread hives, collapse, or another severe reaction after the vaccine.

During or after travel, obtain prompt medical assessment for persistent fever, worsening weakness, significant abdominal symptoms, confusion or difficulty keeping fluids down. Tell the clinician where you travelled and that you were vaccinated; vaccination does not rule out typhoid or other travel-related illness.

Confirm whether typhoid vaccination is recommended for your exact route, which formulation suits you, when to receive it, and whether a booster is due. Ask about other destination-specific vaccines, malaria prevention and a practical plan for safe food and water.

If you take medicines that affect immunity or have a complex medical history, ask how these factors change vaccine choice. Parents should provide each child's age and health details so the vaccinator can advise individually.