Typhoid Vaccine

Contracting typhoid can be distressing, but preventive measures like vaccination are available. The most effective safeguard is the typhoid fever vaccine, which reduces your risk of infection significantly. It is typically administered at specific stages of life and offers protection when given at the right time.

Typhoid is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella Typhi. It spreads through contaminated food and water and is highly infectious. Common symptoms include high fever, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, and diarrhoea.

Vaccination is essential for preventing typhoid infection. Two types of typhoid vaccines are commonly administered:

• Live attenuated typhoid vaccine

Given orally to children aged 6 years and above

• Inactivated polysaccharide vaccine

Injected into children aged 2 years and older

Both forms are effective when taken as per medical advice. Receiving the typhoid injection on time plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of serious illness.

The typhoid vaccine price in India typically ranges between ₹1,349.25 and ₹1,799 per dose, depending on the brand, formulation, and location of administration.

Various brands offer the typhoid vaccine within this price range, and your healthcare provider can suggest the appropriate one based on medical needs.

Although it is not given at birth, it is a recommended vaccine during early childhood, usually administered in two doses. Always consult a qualified medical professional before vaccinating a child or adult, do not attempt to administer the vaccine on your own.

Typhoid vaccines are administered to protect against serious complications caused by Salmonella Typhi. 

Here are some key reasons for getting a typhoid vaccine:

Preservation of Intestinal Health

Untreated typhoid fever can lead to intestinal bleeding, especially in the third week of infection. In some cases, perforations (holes) may form in the intestines, causing contents to leak into the abdominal cavity. This can lead to nausea, severe pain, and even sepsis, a life-threatening condition. Timely administration of the typhoid fever vaccine can help prevent such outcomes.

Avoiding Perforation

One of the severe complications of untreated typhoid is peritonitis, an infection of the abdominal lining. Since the peritoneum lacks its own defence mechanisms, infection can spread to the bloodstream and affect other organs. Receiving a typhoid injection reduces the risk of such life-threatening complications.

High Prevalence of Typhoid Fever

Typhoid is still common in parts of South, Southeast, and East Asia, as well as the Caribbean and Central and South America. Nearly 90% of typhoid-related deaths occur in Asia, underscoring the importance of preventive measures like the typhoid vaccine.

No vaccine guarantees 100% protection, and this applies to the typhoid vaccine as well. While it significantly lowers the risk of infection, you must still take precautions, especially when travelling to high-risk regions.

Avoid consuming untreated water, raw or undercooked food, and always maintain good hygiene. If you're planning international travel, consult your doctor about taking a typhoid vaccine for adults at least two weeks before departure.

The combination of vaccination and preventive practices offers the best defence against typhoid fever.

The method of administering a typhoid vaccine depends on the type and the recommended typhoid vaccine schedule.

Here are some:

Live Typhoid Vaccine (Oral)

This oral typhoid fever vaccine is prescribed for individuals aged 6 years and older. It comes in capsule form, with a total of four doses, taken on alternate days.

• Capsules must be swallowed whole (not chewed) one hour before meals
  

• If you're travelling, the last dose should be completed at least one week before departure
  

• For those at ongoing risk, a booster dose is recommended every 5 years

Inactivated Typhoid Vaccine (Injectable)

This typhoid injection is suitable for both children aged 2 years and above and adults. It is administered as a single intramuscular dose, preferably at least two weeks before potential exposure.

• Individuals at continuous risk should get a booster shot every 2 years
  

• If there’s a severe reaction to the first dose, consult your doctor before proceeding with additional vaccination

A typhoid vaccine dose is generally advised for individuals over the age of 2 years. It is especially recommended in the following scenarios:

International Travellers

If you're visiting typhoid-endemic regions, it's advisable to get vaccinated at least two weeks before your trip.

Residents in Poor Sanitation Areas

Living in areas with inadequate water treatment or food hygiene increases your risk of infection. The typhoid vaccine helps prevent exposure through contaminated sources.

Close Contact with Typhoid Carriers

If you're staying with someone infected with typhoid, a timely typhoid vaccine shot can help protect you from contracting the illness.

Laboratory Workers

Lab personnel working with Salmonella Typhi bacteria should receive the typhoid vaccine as a preventive measure.

While the typhoid vaccine is generally safe, it should not be administered in the following cases:

Children Below the Recommended Age

• The inactivated typhoid injection is not advised for children under 2 years
  

• The oral live typhoid vaccine is not suitable for children below 6 years

Individuals Who Are Currently Ill

Anyone experiencing fever or acute illness should wait until they fully recover before receiving a typhoid vaccine dose.

History of Adverse Reactions

If someone has had an allergic or serious reaction to a previous dose, they should avoid further doses and consult a doctor.

Severe Allergies

People with known severe allergies must seek medical advice before taking the typhoid fever vaccine.

Weakened Immune System

The oral typhoid vaccine is not recommended for individuals with low immunity (e.g. due to HIV or cancer). Such individuals may consider the injectable typhoid vaccine after consulting a healthcare provider.

Certain Medications

Those on antibiotics or blood thinners should check with their doctor before taking the oral vaccine, as it may interfere with medication effectiveness.

The typhoid vaccine is safe for most individuals, but mild side effects can occur. Common side effects include:

• Fever
  

• Headache
  

• Stomach discomfort, nausea, or skin rashes (with oral vaccine)
  

• Redness or swelling at the injection site (with inactivated typhoid injection)
   

Most side effects are temporary and resolve without medical intervention. However, seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.

Typhoid fever, if left untreated, could prove to be fatal, resulting in a shorter lifespan of the affected person. As typhoid vaccines for adults and kids are now widely available, getting a typhoid vaccine dose in time provides immunity against any possible infection. 

While vaccination is a great preventive measure against typhoid infections, one must be prepared to face any severe, unexpected health emergencies.

Therefore, getting yourself and your family insured with the right health insurance coverage would be ideal. This can help ensure financial protection against the various medical costs incurred towards any critical illnesses during emergencies.

You can find several health insurance plans available on Bajaj Markets to secure your family and yourself.