Typhoid

What you need to know Typhoid

Typhoid is an infection that causes diarrhoea and a high temperature of 380C or over, resulting in severe illness for two to three weeks. If left untreated it can develop into a serious condition which may require hospitalisation and can be fatal in severe cases. It is spread through contact with human stools, usually as a result of poor sanitation and personal hygiene.

Typhoid is particularly widespread in developing areas such as Asia, Africa and Latin America. The World Health Organisation estimates that up to 33 million people get Typhoid each year. Typhoid infection causes more than 200,000 deaths worldwide – mostly in children and young adults.

In 2010, 569 people were diagnosed with Typhoid in England and Wales. Most people from the UK who have the infection are likely to have visited parts of the world where the infection is common.

High-risk areas

Typhoid is found throughout the world, but is more likely to occur in areas where there is poor sanitation and hygiene. In particular, risk areas include:

• Africa
• Central America
• The Indian subcontinent
• The Middle East
• South America
• South and South-East Asia

Signs and symptoms

• Fever/Chills
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Nausea
• Loss of appetite
• Constipation and/or diarrhoea

Prevention

Prevention is focused on ensuring safe food and water, particularly in countries where Typhoid is more common. Foods to be wary of include shellfish, salads, unwashed fruit and vegetables and raw undercooked meat products.

Good personal hygiene is also very important. Individuals should ensure that they wash their hands prior to eating and after using the toilet.

The vaccine

There are a number of options available for vaccination against this disease which includes single injections, combined vaccinations with Hepatitis A and oral capsules. Our travel specialist can recommend the most suitable option for you based on your specific health requirements, itinerary, past vaccination history and time to travel.

The Typhoid vaccine protects against Typhoid for about three years. The Typhoid vaccine is not suitable for infants younger than two.

The oral Typhoid vaccine (Vivotif) is available for travellers over six years of age. It will provide protection for around about a year and a booster required after this date. The oral capsule is however not recommended for people who have compromised immune systems as it is a live vaccine.