Typhoid fever

Typhoid fever is a serious infection accompanied by diarrhoea followed by high fever with septicaemia. It is caused by bacteria. It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water. Typhoid fever can be fatal if left untreated. Vaccination protects in 60 to 70% of cases. It is especially recommended when travelling to countries with poor hygiene conditions.

Vaccination method

There are currently two types of vaccine

• Oral vaccine

One capsule must be taken on an empty stomach every 48 hours for two weeks before departure. You must not eat for one hour after taking the capsule. This vaccine should not be taken with antibiotics or certain anti-malaria drugs.

• Injectable vaccine

One injection two weeks before departure.

At equivalent prices, these vaccines each offer approximately 60-70% protection, which lasts for three years.

The vaccine is not 100% effective, so it is recommended that you follow food hygiene rules such as:

• drink only boiled or bottled water,
• avoid eating seafood, raw vegetables and fruit (except fruit that can be peeled).