typhoid vaccine (inactivated), injection

What is the most important information I should know about typhoid vaccine?

What is typhoid vaccine?

Typhoid vaccine is used to help prevent this disease in adults and children who are at least 2 years old. Although not part of a routine immunization schedule in the U.S., typhoid vaccine is recommended for:

• people who travel to area where typhoid fever is common (especially Asia, Africa, and Central or South America);
• people who live with someone who is a typhoid carrier; and
• laboratory workers who may come into contact with Salmonella typhi in a work setting.

This vaccine works by exposing you to a small amount of the bacteria, which causes your body to develop immunity to the disease.

Typhoid vaccine will not treat an active infection that has already developed in the body, and will not prevent any disease caused by bacteria other than Salmonella typhi.

Like any vaccine, the typhoid vaccine may not provide protection from disease in every person.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before receiving typhoid vaccine?

Typhoid vaccine should not be used in a person who is a typhoid carrier.

If you have any of these other conditions, your vaccine may need to be postponed or not given at all:

• fever with any type of infection or illness;
• a bleeding or blood clotting disorder (such as hemophilia);
• a weak immune system caused by disease such as HIV/AIDS or cancer; or
• a weak immune system caused by receiving certain medicines such as steroids, chemotherapy or radiation.

You can still receive a vaccine if you have a minor cold. In the case of a more severe illness with a fever or any type of infection, wait until you get better before receiving this vaccine.

Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

How is typhoid vaccine given?

Typhoid vaccine is recommended for adults and children in the following situations:

• people who travel to countries where typhoid fever is common;
• people who will have long-term exposure to food or water that may be contaminated with typhoid;
• people who live with someone who is a typhoid carrier; and
• laboratory workers who may come into contact with Salmonella typhi in a work setting.

This vaccine is given as an injection (shot) into a muscle. You will receive this injection in a doctor's office or other clinic setting.

The typhoid vaccine is given as a single injection. A booster dose is then recommended every 2 years during possible exposure to typhoid. Your individual booster schedule may be different from these guidelines. Follow your doctor's instructions or the schedule recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

What happens if I miss a dose?

Be sure to receive a booster dose of this vaccine every 2 years during continued exposure to typhoid. If you do not receive the booster every 2 years, you may not be fully protected against the disease.

What happens if I overdose?

An overdose of this vaccine is unlikely to occur.

What should I avoid before or after getting typhoid vaccine?

In addition to receiving typhoid vaccine, take precautions while traveling to further prevent coming into contact with bacteria that cause typhoid fever:

• Avoid eating leafy vegetables such as spinach or lettuce, which are harder to wash properly.
• Avoid eating raw fruits or vegetables that cannot be peeled, or that have been peeled by another person.
• Avoid drinks that contain ice, or frozen treats and flavored ices that may have been made with contaminated water.
• Avoid eating foods you have not cooked or prepared yourself. Use clean surfaces and utensils when preparing food.
• Drink only bottled water (carbonated is best) or water that has been boiled for at least 1 minute.
• Avoid any food or beverage purchased from a street vendor.

What are the possible side effects of typhoid vaccine?

Becoming infected with typhoid fever is much more dangerous to your health than receiving this vaccine. However, like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects but the risk of serious side effects is extremely low.

• fever, swollen glands, rash or itching, body aches;
• tremors, general ill feeling;
• a seizure; or
• a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out.

Common side effects may include:

• pain, tenderness, redness, or a hard lump where the shot was given;
• headache; or
• tiredness.

This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report vaccine side effects to the US Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-822-7967.

What other drugs will affect typhoid vaccine?

Other drugs may affect typhoid vaccine, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Tell your doctor about all other medicines you use.

Where can I get more information?

Your vaccination provider, pharmacist, or doctor can provide more information about this vaccine. Additional information is available from your local health department or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.