Typhoid Immunization

There are two types of vaccines that can provide immunization against typhoid. The first is a shot that contains killed Salmonella typhi bacteria. The second is a vaccine that contains a live but weakened strain of Salmonella bacteria. Immunization should be considered by people traveling to a country where the illness is common. However, watching what you eat and drink can also help.

An Overview of Typhoid Immunization

One way to prevent typhoid fever is with a typhoid immunization. There are two types of vaccines used for typhoid immunization.
 
One vaccine contains killed Salmonella typhi bacteria. This vaccine is administered through a shot. The other vaccine contains a live but weakened strain of the Salmonella bacteria that causes typhoid fever. This vaccine is taken orally (by mouth).
 
If you are traveling to a country where typhoid is common, you should consider typhoid immunization. Remember that you will need to complete your vaccination at least one week before you travel so that the vaccine has time to take effect. Typhoid immunizations lose effectiveness after several years, so if you were vaccinated in the past, check with your doctor to see if it is time for a booster vaccination.
 
(Click Typhoid Vaccine for more information on this prevention strategy.)
 

Prevention Strategies Other Than Immunization

It may surprise you, but watching what you eat and drink when you travel is as important as typhoid immunization. This is because typhoid vaccines are not completely effective. Avoiding risky foods will also help protect you from other illnesses, including:
 
(Click Typhoid Fever Prevention for more typhoid prevention strategies.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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