Hepatitis A and typhoid are two unpleasant illnesses that affect the gut. They are a common cause of gastro-intestinal illness in travellers because they are transmitted through contaminated food and water – but they are easily prevented by vaccines.
What causes typhoid and hepatitis A?
Hepatitis A is a viral infection. Symptoms include:
- gastro-intestinal discomfort
- mild fever
- vomiting and diarrhea
- abdominal pain
- jaundice, a yellow discoloration of the skin and the eyes
Typhoid fever is a response to an intestinal infection of the Salmonella bacteria. Symptoms of typhoid include:
- headache
- abdominal pain and sometimes constipation
- confusion
- fever
Both typhoid and hepatitis A are infectious. Hep A normally clears up on its own, but you should see a healthcare provider so you can take precautions so you don’t pass it on; and to rule out some more serious illnesses that have similar symptoms. If you suspect you have typhoid, see a doctor because it will not clear up on its own: you need treatment with antibiotics.
Where are typhoid and hepatitis A a problem?
Travellers to Asia, Africa and Central and South America and the Caribbean should consider getting vaccinated against both hepatitis A and typhoid.
Am I at risk from typhoid and hepatitis A?
Of the two illnesses, hepatitis A is easier to catch and almost any traveller – even those staying in high-end accommodation – is at risk.
Your risk of catching both typhoid and hep A increases if you are visiting a place with poor standards of sanitation, and if you are visiting friends or relatives in their own home.
What vaccines offer protection against hepatitis A and typhoid?
Typhoid vaccine is available in an injection; and it is also available as a course of tablets.
The hep A vaccine is given as a shot, and may be offered to some travellers in combination with a hepatitis B vaccine.
There is also a combined typhoid and hepatitis A injection which can be good value for some travellers.
Even if you have been vaccinated against typhoid and hepatitis A you still need to take precautions to avoid contaminated food and water. Read more about making good choices when you eat and drink abroad in our travel article.
How do the vaccines against hepatitis A and typhoid work?
These vaccines encourage your body to create antibodies that will fight off Salmonella bacteria and the hepatitis A virus should you be exposed to them.
Where can I get travel vaccinations in Calgary?
If you need an appointment at a travel clinic in Calgary, turn to Canadian Travel Clinics. It is quick and easy to book online. Your consultation will take place at our travel clinic in Downtown Commercial.
How can I find out more about hepatitis A and typhoid?
Canadian Travel Clinics has vaccine information pages for hepatitis A and for typhoid, which tell you more about how to avoid these illnesses. You can also find information about these and other traveller’s diseases from the Government of Canada.