💉 Typhoid Vaccine: Complete Guide on Types, Side Effects & Precautions
Typhoid fever, caused by Salmonella Typhi, is a serious bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated food and water. Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent typhoid, along with hygiene and safe food practices. This guide provides detailed information about the vaccine, its types, schedule, side effects, precautions, myths, and FAQs.
1. What is the Typhoid Vaccine?
The typhoid vaccine stimulates the immune system to fight Salmonella Typhi before infection occurs. It is highly recommended for travelers, residents of endemic regions, and individuals at high risk due to occupation.
2. Types of Typhoid Vaccine
2.1 Oral Live-Attenuated Typhoid Vaccine (Ty21a)
- Form: Oral capsules
- Age: 6 years and above
- Dosage: One capsule every other day for 4 doses
- Notes: Avoid antibiotics during vaccination; can be taken with meals but avoid dairy around ingestion
- Advantages: Painless, easy administration, suitable for long-term protection
- Limitations: Multiple doses, not suitable for <6 years, pregnant women, or immunocompromised
2.2 Injectable Inactivated Typhoid Vaccine (Vi Polysaccharide)
- Form: Single injection
- Age: 2 years and above
- Dosage: Single dose; booster every 2–3 years for high-risk individuals
- Advantages: Single dose, higher protection for younger children, suitable for travelers needing rapid immunity
- Limitations: Mild local side effects, booster required
3. How the Vaccine Works
The oral vaccine contains weakened bacteria that train the immune system, while the injectable vaccine contains purified antigens. Both types stimulate antibody production, preparing the body to fight future exposure to Salmonella Typhi.
4. Who Should Get Vaccinated?
- Travelers to endemic regions
- Residents in areas with poor sanitation
- Food handlers and healthcare workers
- Individuals with chronic illness or weakened immunity (after consultation)
- Children over 2 years (injectable) and over 6 years (oral)
5. Typhoid Vaccine Schedule
| Vaccine Type | Age | Doses | Booster |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oral (Ty21a) | ≥6 years | 4 doses every other day | Booster every 5 years |
| Injectable (Vi polysaccharide) | ≥2 years | Single dose | Booster every 2–3 years for high-risk individuals |
6. Effectiveness
- Oral vaccine: 50–80% protection
- Injectable vaccine: 70–80% protection
- Booster doses improve long-term immunity
- Safe food and hygiene practices are essential even after vaccination
7. Side Effects
7.1 Oral Vaccine Side Effects
- Mild stomach upset
- Nausea
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
7.2 Injectable Vaccine Side Effects
- Pain, redness, or swelling at injection site
- Low-grade fever
- Headache
- Muscle aches
⚠️ Seek immediate medical attention if severe allergic reactions occur: swelling of face/throat, difficulty breathing, or widespread rash.
8. Precautions
- Avoid vaccination if currently ill with fever
- Inform healthcare provider about allergies, pregnancy, or immune deficiency
- Oral vaccine should not be taken with antibiotics; wait at least 3 days after finishing antibiotics
- Maintain hydration and nutrition after vaccination
❗ Myths & Facts About Typhoid Vaccine
- Myth: Vaccine guarantees 100% protection. Fact: Reduces risk but hygiene and safe food practices are still required.
- Myth: Only children need vaccination. Fact: Anyone can get typhoid; children are more vulnerable.
- Myth: Vaccination is painful and dangerous. Fact: Injectable vaccines are mild; oral vaccines are painless.
- Myth: Home remedies prevent typhoid. Fact: Only vaccination and hygiene reliably prevent typhoid.
💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long does it take for the vaccine to work?
Oral vaccine: ~1 week after last dose. Injectable: ~2 weeks after injection.
2. Can oral and injectable vaccines be taken together?
No, they are administered separately based on age and risk factors.
3. How often should boosters be given?
Oral: every 5 years. Injectable: every 2–3 years for high-risk individuals.
4. Is the vaccine safe during pregnancy?
Injectable vaccine may be used in special cases; oral vaccine is not recommended.
5. Can children under 2 receive the vaccine?
Only injectable vaccine is recommended from 2 years onward.
🌺 Conclusion
The typhoid vaccine is a safe, effective, and essential tool to prevent typhoid fever. Both oral and injectable vaccines have mild side effects and provide significant protection when combined with hygiene, safe food, and clean water practices. Awareness of vaccination schedules, side effects, booster requirements, and myths ensures maximum protection for individuals and communities.