Typhoid is a serious bacterial illness that can cause a high fever accompanied by weakness, stomach pains, headache, loss of appetite, and sometimes rash. If untreated, up to 30 percent of typhoid cases are fatal. The disease is spread mainly through contaminated food or water but it’s also possible to get typhoid from close contact with an infected person.

Getting a typhoid vaccine can prevent typhoid infection. Since none of the available typhoid vaccines are 100 percent effective, travelers should still take precautions to avoid ingestion of contaminated food and water.

• People traveling to parts of the world where typhoid is prevalent

• Travelers ages 2+ should receive the injection at least 2 weeks prior to expected exposure

• Travelers ages 6+ are approved to take the capsule at least 1 week prior to travel

• People in close contact with others who are infected with typhoid

People who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should ask their doctor if they should receive the vaccine.

• People who previously had a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction to the vaccine or any ingredient in the vaccine

• People should not receive the oral vaccine if they have a weakened immune system for any reason, including:

o HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system

o Treatment with steroids, such as prednisone, for 2 weeks or longer

o People with cancer or undergoing cancer treatment

• People on antibiotics who plan to receive the oral typhoid vaccine should wait until 3 days after finishing the antibiotic regimen

Mild-to-moderate side effects:

• Abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headache

• Injection

o Soreness, redness, or swelling at the injection site

o Headache

o Flu-like symptoms

Severe side effects, although rare, may include serious allergic reactions. Symptoms include:

• Difficulty breathing

• Wheezing

• Hives

• Pale skin

• Fast heartbeat

• Dizziness

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can help ease pain and reduce fever. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any unexpected or worsening reactions after receiving a vaccine.