Typhoid fever vaccination: this you need to know before your trip
Are you travelling to South Asia, Africa or South America soon? Then a typhoid fever vaccination is a wise preparation for your trip. Typhoid fever is an intestinal disease that mainly occurs in countries where hygiene is poor. You can contract this nasty disease through contaminated food or water. In this blog, we tell you all about the typhoid fever vaccination: what exactly is typhoid fever, for which destinations you need the shot and how the vaccination works. You will also get practical tips to stay healthy during your trip.
What is typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever is an intestinal disease caused by salmonella bacteria. This bacteria is found in the faeces of sick patients or people who carry the bacteria. When there is a lack of hygiene, the bacteria can spread easily.
How do you get infected?
Consider restaurant workers who do not wash their hands properly after visiting the toilet. This allows them to contaminate food and drink with the bacteria. Consuming contaminated food or water can then cause typhoid fever.
Symptoms of typhoid fever:
- Diarrhoea and fever
- Headache and abdominal pain
- Reduced appetite
- Drowsiness and fatigue
- Red spots on the abdomen
The time between being infected and getting sick is about 8 to 14 days. This means that sometimes you may not develop symptoms until after returning from your trip.
Where do you come across typhoid fever?
Typhoid fever is relatively common in certain parts of the world. The risk varies widely by destination.
High risk:
Medium to low risk:
- Africa sub-Saharan Africa
- Central America
- South America
The risk in Africa and Latin America is significantly lower than in South Asia, but does occur. Are you going to one of these destinations? Then it is wise to seek advice from Vaccination Point beforehand.
How does the typhoid fever vaccination work?
At Vaccination Point, you can get the typhoid fever vaccination. The vaccine is easy and quick to administer.
Vaccination schedule:
- Number of injections: 1 single puncture
- Protection duration: 3 years
- Protection rating: 60-70% against the disease
- Immunity: Develops within 2 to 3 weeks after injection
It is important to get vaccinated on time so that you are maximally protected upon arrival at your travel destination. Therefore, schedule your appointment at Vaccination Point at least 2 to 3 weeks before departure In.
Why 60-70% protection is sufficient
You may be wondering: why no 100% protection? It is important to know that a typhoid fever shot combined with good hygiene measures offers excellent protection.
The typhoid fever vaccination:
- Significantly lowers your risk of infection
- Ensures milder disease should you become infected
- Prevents serious complications
Combined with sensible eating habits and good hand hygiene, you will be optimally protected during your trip.
How to prevent typhoid fever during your trip?
A typhoid vaccination is an important first step, but you can also take measures yourself to prevent infection.
Food hygiene - The golden rule:
“Cook it, peel it, boil it or forget it” (boil it, peel it, cook it or forget it)
Practical tips:
- Drink only bottled water (check that the cap is properly sealed)
- Avoid ice cubes in drinks
- Eat only thoroughly cooked or fried food
- Avoid raw fruit and vegetables unless you have peeled them yourself
- Do not eat unpasteurised dairy products
- Wash your hands regularly with soap, especially before eating
- Avoid street food in areas of questionable hygiene
These simple rules significantly reduce your risk of contracting typhoid fever and other travel-related intestinal problems.
When do you need a typhoid fever vaccination?
Whether you need a typhoid fever vaccination depends on several factors.
Vaccination is strongly recommended in:
- Travel to India, Pakistan, Bangladesh or Sri Lanka
- Long-term stay in high-risk areas (more than 1 month)
- Travelling to areas with limited sanitation facilities
- Staying with family or friends in high-risk areas (higher chance of eating locally)
- Adventure travel outside tourist areas
Less necessary at:
- Short city breaks to major hotels in South Asia
- All-inclusive resorts with western hygiene standards
Do you doubt whether a typhoid fever vaccination is necessary for your trip? Then make a no-obligation appointment at Vaccination Point. Our experienced team will give you personalised travel advice.
Costs and fees typhoid fever vaccination
What does the typhoid fever vaccination cost?
For the current cost of the one-off typhoid fever vaccination, please take a look at the rates page. Note: these amounts do not include (telephone) consultation fees.
Reimbursement through your health insurance
Depending on your health insurance, (part of) the vaccination may be reimbursed. Many supplementary insurances reimburse travel vaccinations in full or in part.
Check out the fees page for possible reimbursement through your insurance. That way, you know in advance where you stand.
Frequently asked questions about the typhoid shot
Do I really need a typhoid fever vaccination for India?
For India, the typhoid fever vaccination is strongly recommended. India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka are among the high-risk areas where typhoid fever is relatively common. Especially if you travel outside tourist areas or stay with local families, vaccination is wise.
Can I travel safely even without vaccination?
Technically, it can be done, but it is strongly discouraged for South Asia. Many travellers who have not taken a vaccination run unnecessary health risks. The typhoid fever shot is a simple and effective way to protect yourself.
Do I need to be vaccinated again after 3 years?
Yes, if you travel to a high-risk area again after 3 years, you will need a new typhoid fever vaccination for optimal protection.
