Sign inBook Now
A peaceful Mediterranean coastline and blue sea
Travel health.
Clearly explained.

Typhoid vaccine

Typhoid vaccination reduces the risk of typhoid fever, a systemic bacterial infection usually acquired through contaminated food or water.

What is it?

Typhoid can cause persistent fever, headache, abdominal symptoms and serious complications. Antibiotic-resistant infection is an increasing concern.

Where it may be relevant

  • Travellers to places where typhoid is common, especially with prolonged or local food-and-water exposure
  • People visiting friends and relatives
  • Travellers staying where sanitation and access to safe water may be limited

Dose schedules.

The clinician will select the appropriate licensed schedule after reviewing age, health, previous doses and departure date.

Injectable vaccine

Eligible adults and children

Dose 1Day 0

Give early enough to develop protection; a booster may be advised after three years if risk continues.

Who may be eligible

  • Adults and children from the selected vaccine's licensed age with relevant travel risk
  • People requiring a booster because exposure continues

Who may not be eligible

  • Anyone with a confirmed severe allergic reaction to a previous dose or a vaccine ingredient
  • People who are acutely unwell with a significant fever may need vaccination deferred
  • Pregnancy, breastfeeding, immune suppression and current medicines must be reviewed individually

Potential side effects

  • Pain, redness or swelling where the injection is given
  • Headache, tiredness, muscle aches or a mild fever
  • Feeling faint around the time of vaccination

Important risks and precautions

  • A severe allergic reaction is very rare and requires urgent treatment
  • Protection is not absolute, so relevant food, water, bite or exposure precautions remain important
  • The exact product and schedule must be confirmed during a clinical assessment

Clinical references

Further information.

Information is general and does not replace a personal assessment, prescribing decision or the latest destination-specific advice.

Frequently asked questions

What does the typhoid vaccine protect against?

It reduces the risk of typhoid fever but does not replace food and water precautions.

Who should consider the typhoid vaccine?

It is commonly considered for higher-risk food-and-water exposure in countries where typhoid occurs.

How many doses of the typhoid vaccine are needed?

The injectable vaccine is generally one dose, with later boosting for continuing risk.

Can I have the typhoid vaccine close to departure?

Book an assessment even when departure is close. Whether vaccination can be completed or still provide useful protection depends on the product, previous doses and time available.

Can the typhoid vaccine be given with other vaccines?

Many vaccines can be given at the same appointment, but spacing rules can apply to some live vaccines. The clinician will check the products, your history and the proposed schedule.