Typhoid Vaccination

Typhoid, which is potentially fatal, is caused by Salmonella bacteria growing in the intestines and in the blood. Typhoid is very contagious, which means an infected person may well cause other people to get ill.

It is often spread through contaminated water or food, but it can also be spread through tainted shellfish from infected waters.

Symptoms of typhoid

Typhoid symptoms include abdominal pain, confusion, headache and fever, constipation or diarrhea. Some people get a rash of little pink spots on their abdomen. In more severe cases, there may be enlargement of the liver and spleen or intestinal bleeding, which can be fatal.

Anyone who suspects they have typhoid fever needs to see a doctor. If persistent gastro-intestinal symptoms arise after your return to Canada, see a doctor and let them know you’ve been travelling.

Typhoid is treated with antibiotics, and it is important to complete the entire prescribed course to ensure all the bacteria has left your body.

Am at risk from typhoid?

If you are visiting relatives and friends or are partaking in a homestay, you are particularly at risk from typhoid. Children are also at elevated risk because their immune systems are undeveloped.

Countries with a typhoid risk

Typhoid can be contracted anywhere in the world, but it is more common where water and food supplies are unsafe. The risk is much lower if you are staying in accommodation with high standards. The Government of Canada says that there is a greater risk of typhoid in the following regions: South Asia, Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Central and South America.

How to avoid catching typhoid fever

Vaccines are available, and some are combined with a vaccine for hepatitis A. Check with your healthcare provider before travelling to certain areas to see which vaccination is right for you. Note that the vaccines are not 100% effective, so you need to take precautions to avoid exposure

Typhoid occurs where sanitation is poor and can be picked up from contaminated food and water. Travellers can reduce the risk of getting typhoid by frequently washing hands or using hand sanitizer, particularly after using the washroom.

Opt for water from factory-sealed bottles – or tea is a safe choice because the water used to make it is boiled. You should avoid ice cubes in drinks because bacteria is not destroyed by freezing and it is difficult to guarantee the water used to make them.

There are some precautions to take around food, as well: eating freshly cooked hot food. Avoid raw food unless you can peel it yourself. Salads are also best left alone because they are not cooked and cannot be washed properly.

If the worst does happen and you catch typhoid, seek medical help as you will be highly contagious and may not get better without antibiotics. Avoid handling and preparing food until your doctor says you are no longer a risk to others.