What is Typhoid?
Typhoid is a life-threatening illness caused by the bacterium Salmonella Typhi. This bacteria is present in huma waste (urine or stool) from infected people. People who use the bathroom and do not properly wash hands can pass the bacteria on to others easily, especially through food preparation or hand-to-mouth contact. Drinking water contaminated with sewage is also a key source of infection. Other high risk vectors of infection include shellfish, fruits or vegetables contaminated with sewage, or fertilized with human waste. Despite recovering from the illness, some people can be carriers of typhoid bacteria and spread the disease on to others.
Symptoms include high fever, weakness, stomach pain, headache, and loss of appetite. In some cases, patients may also experience a rash of flat, rose-colored spots on the body, excluding head and limbs.
How is Hepatitis A transmitted?
Typhoid is usually transmitted through contaminated food or water. The bacteria can also spread through contact with an infected person.
Can Typhoid result in serious illness or complications?
Yes. Typhoid can lead to serious complications, such as kidney failure, intestinal perforation, and death. 2 out of every 10 people who get sick may die unless they get treatment with antibiotics quickly. With timely treatment, the death rate is less than 1%. In some cases, patients may develop a chronic form of the disease that can last for years.
Which individuals are at heightened risk from Typhoid?
Certain groups of people are at increased risk for typhoid, including:
- travellers to countries where the disease is common
- people who work with or are in close contact with infected persons
- people with weak immune systems
The best way to protect against typhoid is to get vaccinated.
There are two types of typhoid vaccine available: injectable (Typhim Vi) and oral (Vivotif). Both vaccines are effective, but Typhim Vi is more commonly used. The vaccine is usually given as a series of two shots, with the second shot given four to six weeks after the first.
Why is it important to get vaccinated against Typhoid?
Typhoid vaccine is safe and effective. It can help protect you from this life-threatening disease. Vaccination is especially important for those who are planning to travel to countries where typhoid is common, as well as for those who are at increased risk for the disease
What types of vaccines are available for Typhoid?
Swift Clinics can provide two types of vaccine available for typhoid: injectable (Typhim Vi) and oral (Vivotif [special order]). Typhim vaccine is generally in stock, and the vaccine is usually given as an injectable, single shot.
How long does protection from Typhim shot last?
The vaccine provides long-lasting protection, but immunity may wane over time. Typhim (injectable) can provide protection against typhoid for about 2 years. A booster vaccine may be recommended for people who are at increased risk for the disease or who are planning to travel to an area where typhoid is common.
What precautions should I take to minimize the chances of getting a Typhoid infection when traveling?
When travelling to an area where typhoid is common, you should take the following precautions:
- only drink bottled or boiled water
- eat only thoroughly cooked food
- avoid consuming drinks with ice cubes
- wash your hands often, especially before eating
- avoid close contact with people who are sick
If you are planning to travel to an area where typhoid is common, talk to a healthcare professional at Swift Clinics about getting vaccinated. Typhoid vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help protect you from this life-threatening disease. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
Which countries and regions present a higher risk of Typhoid transmission?
Some countries and regions where typhoid is more common include:
- Africa
- Southeast Asia
- South Asia
- the Indian subcontinent
- Latin America
If you’re planning on traveling to any of these areas, it’s important to get vaccinated against typhoid. Typhoid vaccine is safe and effective, and it can help protect you from this life-threatening disease. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
If you are travelling to any of these areas, it is important to talk to your health care provider about getting vaccinated against Typhoid. There are options available for Typhoid vaccination through Swift Clinics, such as Typhim VI.
You can schedule your appointment online now by clicking here, or call us at our toll-free number.
Disclaimer : This general information is not intended to replace the advice of a medical professional. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to your healthcare provider.