What is Typhoid Vaccine Used for?

Typhoid vaccine helps to prevent typhoid fever caused by the bacteria, Salmonella typhi. Most people get typhoid from the consumption of contaminated food or water. People who are currently ill with typhoid fever or are carriers of the bacteria can also spread the disease to others.

Typhoid fever can be a life-threatening disease. Symptoms of infection may present as fever, weakness, headache, or stomach problems, such as constipation or loss of appetite.

Who Should Receive the Typhoid Vaccine?

It is recommended in individuals travelling to or living in areas where typhoid fever is widespread and hygiene standards are poor.

You may also consider getting the typhoid vaccine if you have close and prolonged contact with a long-term carrier of the typhoid bacteria. Please consult your doctor for more advice.

What Precautions Should I Follow Before Receiving the Typhoid Vaccine?

Inform your healthcare professional if:

• You are allergic to this vaccine or any of the other ingredients of this vaccine

• You are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding

• You are taking any other medications

• You are currently not feeling well and having a fever

• You have a weak immune system due to an illness such as Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infection

• You are currently on medications which weaken your immune system (e.g. high dose steroids)

• You have recently received any other vaccines

• You have a history of bleeding disorders

How Is The Typhoid Vaccine Given?

It is given by injection into a muscle or underneath the skin.

One dose is usually required. A booster may be given every 3 years, if the risk of typhoid fever persists.

What Are Some Common Side-Effects Of The Typhoid Vaccine?

• Some people may feel dizzy after the vaccination

  • Sit for 15 minutes after receiving the vaccine to avoid dizziness 

• Pain, redness, and swelling at the injection site 

  • You may place a cold compress over the affected area for relief

  • You may take paracetamol for pain relief 

• Headache or muscle pain

  • You may take paracetamol for pain relief

Please see a doctor if these side effects do not get better or become worse. 

What Are Some Rare But Serious Side-Effects That I Need To Seek Medical Advice Immediately?

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following:

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue

• Difficulty in breathing

• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should see your healthcare professional immediately.

Disclaimers

The information provided on this page does not replace information from your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.

This article is jointly developed by members of the National Medication Information workgroup. The workgroup consists of cluster partners (National Healthcare Group, National University Health System and SingHealth), community pharmacies (Guardian, Unity and Watsons) and Pharmaceutical Society of Singapore. The content does not reflect drug availability and supply information in pharmacies and healthcare institutions. You are advised to check with the respective institutions for such information.

Last updated on Oct 2022