What it is, and why it matters
Typhoid fever is caused by the bacterium Salmonella enterica serovar Typhi, transmitted through contaminated food and water. The illness causes prolonged high fever, abdominal pain, headache, weakness and sometimes a characteristic rash — typically over 3–4 weeks if untreated, with risk of intestinal perforation and other serious complications.
Typhoid is uncommon in Australia outside of imported cases, but is highly endemic in the Indian subcontinent and parts of South-East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, Central and South America. Antibiotic resistance — particularly extensively drug-resistant (XDR) typhoid in Pakistan — has made vaccination increasingly important for travellers.
How typhoid vaccination works
Two typhoid vaccines are used in Australia: an injectable polysaccharide vaccine (single dose) and an oral live-attenuated vaccine (3 capsules over 5 days).
The injectable vaccine is more commonly given because of its simplicity and broader patient suitability — the oral vaccine is contraindicated in pregnancy and immunocompromise.
TGA advertising compliance. Vaccines are described by disease or category in line with the Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code. Specific brands are confirmed with you at the consultation.
Funding and eligibility for typhoid vaccination
Anchored to the National Immunisation Program schedule and ATAGI advice. Your immuniser confirms your eligibility at the pre-vaccination consultation.
Travellers to typhoid-endemic regions
Recommended for travel to the Indian subcontinent, parts of South-East Asia, sub-Saharan Africa, and parts of Central/South America — particularly when staying with relatives, off the standard tourist track, or for prolonged trips.
Laboratory workers handling Salmonella Typhi
Funded for occupational exposure under workplace arrangements.
Doses and timing
Schedules below reflect typical recommendations. Your immuniser will confirm exactly what applies to you, including any catch-up doses and co-administration with other vaccines.
- Injectable vaccine: single dose, ideally at least 2 weeks before travel; booster every 3 years if ongoing risk.
- Oral vaccine: 3 capsules taken every other day (days 1, 3, 5) on an empty stomach; booster every 3 years.
What to expect
- Injectable: sore arm, mild headache, occasional low-grade fever.
- Oral: mild abdominal discomfort or nausea — uncommon.
- Severe reactions are rare.
Precautions
- Oral live vaccine: contraindicated in pregnancy and severe immunocompromise — use injectable instead.
- Antibiotics within 72 hours can interfere with the oral vaccine — separate by at least 3 days.
- Severe allergic reaction to a previous dose is a contraindication.
How well the vaccine works
Both vaccines provide approximately 50–80% protection against typhoid for around 3 years. Travellers should still observe strict food and water precautions — vaccination supplements but does not replace these.
FAQs about typhoid vaccination
I'm visiting family in India for a month — do I need typhoid vaccination?
Yes — strongly recommended. Typhoid is highly endemic in the subcontinent and "visiting friends and relatives" trips carry the highest risk because travellers eat in homes rather than vetted restaurants. The single injection is simple — get it 2 weeks before you go.
How long does typhoid vaccine last?
Around 3 years. If you continue to travel to endemic areas, a booster every 3 years is recommended.
Can I get typhoid and other travel vaccines in the same visit?
Yes. Typhoid co-administers safely with hepatitis A, hepatitis B, Japanese encephalitis, rabies and other travel vaccines. We routinely give multiple vaccines in a single travel consult.
Deeper reading on typhoid
Book your typhoid vaccination
Walk in seven days a week, or book a guaranteed time online via Priceline.
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